[OSM-dev] Google Map Maker

[SteveC]

http://www.opengeodata.org/?p=307


Google Want to be TeleAtlas
Google have launched MapMaker, a kind of faux OpenStreetMap where they  
own all the data and you’re only allowed to map in certain Freedom Of  
Speech Zones.

Like Knol, the mooted ‘wikipedia killer’, Google refuse to acknowledge  
existing communities, trample on their hard work and lack the mindset  
to engage with an open project.

But, this really doesn’t matter.

What’s fascinating is that they haven’t set themselves up against  
OpenStreetMap so much but rather TeleAtlas/TomTom, NAVTEQ/Nokia  
andAND. This is really a swipe at things like TomToms MapShare(TM) and  
ANDs Map 2.0. The question is now going to be, when do they switch on  
editing of existing data markets, if at all? Only those with intimate  
knowledge of the contracts will know.

The fundamental reasons for OpenStreetMap remain intact and if  
anything are now stronger. At first glance it sounds like  
OpenStreetMap, until you realise that Google own that data you give  
them, there’s no community and you are unlikely to see use of the data  
in ‘creative, productive, or unexpected ways’.

Google very kindly sponsored our first conference (and you should come  
to our second which they didn’t) but if they wish to turn it in to an  
us or them, then it is us!


On 23 Jun 2008, at 21:40, Sjors Provoost wrote:

> Need I say more?
>
> http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2008/06/making-your-mark-on-world.html
>
> We live in an interesting world...
>
> Sjors
>
> _______________________________________________
> dev mailing list
> dev at openstreetmap.org
> http://lists.openstreetmap.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/dev
>

Best

Steve