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Monday, July 2, 2012

Amazon reportedly acquires UpNext, 3D map wars begin in earnest

Amazon reportedly acquires UpNext, 3D map wars begin in earnest


Amazon reportedly acquires UpNext, 3D map wars begin in earnest

We might as well call 2012 the year of the 3D map. We've seen both Apple and Google show their cards, but GigaOM now hears that Amazon has jumped in by acquiring newcomer UpNext. The details are scant, but the approximately $ 2.5 million deal would give Amazon the startup's 3D, Android-native maps of 50 US cities, complete with navigation and extra information about notable buildings. The online reseller hasn't confirmed whether or not the acquisition is happening, which leaves it very much in rumor territory for now. That said, it's not hard to imagine Amazon taking that leap. The Kindle Fire is cut out of the official An droid ecosystem and won't get built-in 3D maps without effort on its creator's part -- a buyout would certainly put that mapping on the fast track.

Engadget

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