Aug/Sept 2007

'Relief' maps showing height graphically in three-dimensional form can now be displayed by applications using Navteq digital map data. The development results from the launch by the company of what are termed digital terrain models and satellite imaging.

The digital terrain data provides three-dimensional elevation data, which is further enhanced with texture and colours to help users understand where they are in relation to surrounding natural landmarks.

The company reckons that satellite imaging adds realism to map displays, and when used in navigation and location-based systems, helps people more easily orient themselves. Its own version has been given a consistent look worldwide to offer a seamless effect in large scale applications.

Navteq has geo-referenced these two new layers of visual content to its underlying mapping, allowing application developers to implement them the most appropriate way for their customer base and system capacity.

The company says these developments have been driven in part by consumer demand for what it calls 'realistic navigation experiences'.