Amazon buys UpNext – a 3D mapping startup

UpNextWhile Apple has been distancing itself from Google with the introduction of its own mapping service, it looks like Amazon might be following suit in the near future. According to reports online, the company recently bought up a 3D mapping startup, UpNext. The conditions of the deal weren’t mentioned – neither were what Amazon plans to do with the startup but we can be pretty sure it’s going to be the inclusion of a mapping service on the next generation Kindle Fire tablet (the current version lacks a GPS system).

With the Kindle Fire 2 rumored to be launched in July, we might not have to wait too long to find out. Stay tuned and we’ll keep you posted.

By Ubergizmo. Related articles: Kindle Fire 2 rumored for August release, Amazon Kindle Next reportedly enters the arms race with a quad-core tablet,

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 Android 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.

Amazon reportedly acquires UpNext, 3D map wars begin in earnest originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Jul 2012 20:09:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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