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# Crowdsourced Mapping Apps
Apple's 'Indoor Survey' Lets Some Users Map Out the Inside of a Building

By Cadhla Gray | Published 2015-11-03 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mapping-apps
References: [independent](http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/news/apple-quietly-launches-indoor-survey-app-allowing-people-to-make-maps-of-a-places-insides-a6718471.html) & [archinect](http://archinect.com/news/article/140274306/apple-s-secret-indoor-survey-app-enables-a-crowdsourced-gps-for-interiors)

While there are many mapping apps available, there are few that plot out the inside of a building. Providing an [indoor GPS system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/digital-navigation-system), [Apple](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/look-around) quietly released an exclusive app called 'Indoor Survey' that is currently only available to specially registered [iPhone](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-invites) users.

By dropping "points" throughout a building while walking through, the user can generate a map as the device uses radio frequency signal data and sensor data in combination. The app will also help improve the accuracy of Apple Maps by crowdsourcing the data.

Indoor mapping apps such as this one can help users get around a building and remember certain points to return to. In combination with iBeacons, this app could have a great deal of potential at events, galleries or stores, providing automated information upon arrival at specific locations.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 2.7/10
- Popularity: 20% | Activity: 52% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile)

## Key Themes

### Key Themes Behind This Trend

- **Indoor Mapping Apps:** Developing indoor mapping apps can revolutionize navigation within large buildings, offering convenience and efficiency in various industries.
- **Crowdsourcing Data:** Integrating crowdsourcing features into mapping apps allows for the collection of accurate real-time information, leading to improved navigation and user experience.
- **Ibeacons Integration:** Combining indoor mapping apps with iBeacons creates opportunities for automated information delivery in specific locations, enhancing communication and engagement in various settings.

### Where This Applies

- **Retail:** Implementing indoor mapping apps in retail spaces can simplify the shopping experience, help customers locate products, and provide personalized recommendations.
- **Event Management:** Using indoor mapping apps integrated with iBeacons can optimize event management by guiding attendees to different areas and providing real-time updates and notifications.
- **Museum and Gallery:** Adopting indoor mapping apps in museums and galleries can enhance visitor experiences, offering interactive and informative content while navigating through exhibitions.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Map Discovery Platforms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/allinmap.md)
- [Hybrid Work-Focused Mapping Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workplace-indoor-mapping.md)
- [Smartphone Map App Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mapapp-feature.md)
- [Accessibility-Focused Navigation Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atlas-apps.md)
- [Feature-Rich Airport Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/byair-app.md)
- [Digital Map Updates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/look-around.md)
- [Personalized Map Markers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimap-radar.md)
- [Public Bathroom Location Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-bathroom-app.md)
- [Web-Based Mapping Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/apple-maps-for-web.md)
