The Overture Maps Foundation, supported by the Linux Foundation, was founded by several key contributors who want to work together to improve the accessibility of map data.

The Overture Maps Foundation was founded in 2022 by Meta Platforms Inc., Amazon Web Services Inc. and Microsoft Corp. founded. and TomTom NV and supported by the Linux Foundation. The aim of this initiative is to improve the accuracy and accessibility of map data. By integrating various sources, they aim to create a structured scheme to strengthen mapping services worldwide through shared ownership.

Data challenge

The biggest challenge for the Overture Maps Foundation is data. Mapping applications rely on up-to-date information from various sources and on a machine that can process the data volumes quickly and accurately.

It was in June Data schema and global entity reference system (GERS), which plays a key role in creating a structure for the exchange of open card data. This project serves as a tool to improve interoperability between different data sets using geographically tagged information from companies and organizations.

Use of AI

Artificial intelligence also offers the possibility of creating more comprehensive map data sets. Earlier this year, for example, AI was used to track unreported fishing vessels or detect graffiti on street signs. Google LLC is also said to be conducting a pilot project to add generative AI to its mapping application.

Although Google is a large mapping data company, it does not contribute to the Overture Foundation because of Maps. Still, the foundation has already worked with Google to solve the problem of reliable location data by increasing the number of mapped buildings by more than two billion using the company’s satellite imagery information.