Navteq debuts indoor mapping service for shopping centers
updated 05:25 pm EDT, Mon March 21, 2011
Launch includes 200 US locations, more overseas
Navteq has announced that it has expanded its range of mapping services to include indoor areas. The new maps, which are initially focused on shopping centers, include interior map attributes such as escalators, stairs, emergency exits and bathrooms, along with much greater detail for POIs related information such as departments within stores.
The company suggests Destination Maps are geared for complex navigation within buildings, as routing calculations through interior spaces must consider floor levels and other factors. The system also offers a 'virtual connections' feature that is claimed to improve intuitive guidance by sending pedestrians directly across some open areas that are commonly used for foot traffic.
Destination Maps are currently available for 200 of the largest shopping centers in the US; the company plans to add additional domestic locations and sites throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. Existing locations are also expected to be improved with location-based content such as movie and event listings for individual venues.
