amap

Amap, also known as Gaode Maps, is a Chinese web mapping and navigation service operated by Amap (AutoNavi), a subsidiary of Alibaba Group. The platform provides digital maps, driving, walking, and cycling navigation, public transit planning, real-time traffic updates, points of interest search, and various location-based services across mobile apps, the web, and embedded automotive systems. Data sources include AutoNavi’s map database, government feeds, and user contributions, with regular updates to roads and POIs. Amap also offers APIs and SDKs for developers to embed maps, geocoding, routing, and POI data into third-party apps and devices.

History and ownership: AutoNavi was established in the early 2000s as a Chinese map service provider. Alibaba Group acquired AutoNavi in 2014, and the Gaode brand became widely recognized in China as Amap. Since the acquisition, the service has been integrated into Alibaba’s ecosystem, aligning with its e-commerce and mobile payment platforms.

Availability and market presence: Amap’s mobile apps are dominant in Mainland China, with versions for iOS and Android and a web interface. Outside China, availability is limited and data quality can vary. The service competes with Baidu Maps and Tencent Maps and is used by transportation and delivery platforms for route planning, location lookup, and navigation.

Usage and impact: Amap is a core component of many location-based services in China, underpinning ride-hailing, logistics, and consumer apps, and serving users with real-time traffic, optimized routing, and offline map capabilities in supported regions.