Pokemon Go developer Niantic Labsrecently acquired Scaniverse, a company that makes 3D mapping software.
Its a sign the developer is ramping up plans to develop a 3D map of the globe.
Such maps could have far-ranging benefits, experts say.
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The purchase of Scaniverse isnt the only recent move Niantic has made to snap up 3D mapping companies.
In March 2020, the developer announced the acquisition of spatial mapping company 6D.ai.
They offer a means for developers and designers to better visualize their products and processes in an efficient manner.
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Putting Data in Images
Other approaches take a birds eye view of 3D mapping.
For example, Blackshark.ai is building maps using algorithms to automatically extract information from satellite imagery.
The result is whats called semantic mapping, which embeds data within the maps.
Putz said 3D digital maps would allow better decision-making across urban planning, insurance, and disaster relief industries.
The field of 3D mapping isnt new.
Such three-dimensional maps also could be used in VR and AR projects, Putz said.
