Uber wants to map the streets of Asia to improve its service, Singapore to be first target

Uber will start mapping Asian roadways from 13 February. The first such program will be launched in Singapore.

Understandably, the company claims that maps are very important for a good Uber experience. They need to know how to get somewhere, what traffic patterns are like, etc.

In a blog post, Uber says that while existing maps are serviceable, they’re not good enough for its needs, which is why it needs to start mapping things out on its own. The mapping data will be collected by Uber’s driver-partners in Singapore, who will use specially kitted out vehicles for the same.

Uber adds that mapping data for your pick-up and drop location will not be stored in the interests of privacy. This data will also not be made public.

“Over the past decade, mapping innovation has disrupted industries and changed daily life in ways I couldn’t have imagined when I started. That progress will only accelerate in the coming years especially with technologies like self-driving cars,” says Manik Gupta, Uber’s Director of Product.

TechCrunch points out that Uber’s own mapping service was expected. The company only recently hired Brian McClendon and Manik Gupta from the Google Maps team. It also acquired mapping startup deCarta in 2015. Uber has also started mapping in the US, UK, Australia, Mexico and other countries.