Apple Buys Canadian Mapping Company, Trying a Google Earth Alternative ?
Looks like Google Earth is soon going to face tough competition from a strong rival. Apple has just bought a Canadian mapping company named Poly9. The company specializes in interactive 3D software designed to be used in browsers.
Poly9 (read Apple’s Google Earth) is a very lightweight program which uses only 303 kb of your browser’s memory. The application is cross platform, does not require any download and can run from your iPhone as well. The interface consists of a spinning 3D globe with comprehensive satellite imagery.
A report from the Apple insider blog reports that Poly9 was purchased “recently” by Apple, though the official confirmation has not been given. The office was closed a few weeks ago and all the employees were asked not to discuss anything regarding the agreement. The company has earlier worked with popular brands across the globe – this includes Microsoft, Yahoo, MSNBC, NORAD to name a few.
Although Apple has snatched the Canadian company under their grip, there are some companies and web applications currently using the Poly9 technology. A very good example is Skype
[ via Gizmodo ].
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Author: Amit Banerjee
Amit has been writing for Techie Buzz since early 2009 and keeps a close eye on web apps, Google and all things Tech. He also writes at his own tech blog, Ampercent. Follow him on Twitter @ amit_banerjeeAmit Banerjee has written 372 articles for us.
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Personally I don't think Apple bought that company to compete with Google Earth. I think it's more about using their technology to create a better iphone experience. I think Apple knows better than to instigate any direct competition with Google.