Google Maps Mania points readers to a map of the recent Australian Census. “The application is a Google Maps tool to visualise Population and Housing data from the Australian 2011 Census. The Australian Census 2011 Maps allows users to visualise custom thematic choropleth maps with the census data. The application includes a number of options which allows the user to define which data to display on the map, the values of data ranges, the colours of thematic drapes and the locations of interest.”
Amazon has purchased a 3D mapping firm, UpNext, leading to speculation that they may be moving away from Google Maps for future Android-based Kindle Fire devices. First Apple, now Amazon. Maps are a hot place to be right now.
In more tech-giant mapping news, Microsoft last week launched a new tool – Microsoft Local Impact Map – that aims to help nonprofits communicate their efforts in a more visual manner, using maps.
Digital Coast has a discussion talking about the difference between resolution (ie point spacing) and accuracy (likeness to reality) when it comes to LiDAR. A good primer on some oft-misunderstood basics.
Spatially Adjusted has an interesting post talking of a recent interview with Autodesk VP Phillip Bernstein on the future of design. Specifically, the convergence of BIM/GIS/CAD.
Directions Magazine has a really interesting/terrifying post that talks of an algorithm that can predict your position 24 hours in the future to around 20 meters accuracy, using history and the movements of your friends. Obviously, it won’t work for everyone, but it’s early days yet.
New Scientist has a post that talks of a new idea to achieve accurate indoor positioning: mapping magnetic anomalies that make compasses go a little haywire indoors, and using those anomalies to determine location.
