Ola acquires GeoSpoc to build next-generation location technology

Mobility start-up Ola acquired GeoSpoc, a Pune-based provider of geospatial services, on Tuesday, in an undisclosed deal. On the rationale, Ola said, new mobility would see profound changes in the way people move and new vehicle form factors and modes of transport would transform day-to-day lives of people. These fundamental changes would require investments in next-gen technologies, including location and geospatial technologies, and advancements in satellite imagery conversion into real-time maps as well as 3D, HD and vector maps, the ride-hailing firm said. “Multi-modal transportation options will need geospatial intelligence to understand the unique benefits of each option and provide suggestions accordingly,” said Bhavish Aggarwal chairman and Group CEO adding maps would need to consider a three-dimensional view of the world as aerial mobility models such as drones become more mainstream. According to Mr. Aggarwal, maps would also help in incorporating near real time satellite imagery to provide a better understanding of road quality, as well as improvements such as avoiding poorly lit streets at night for safety — even if it is a faster route.