Digital Map Market

Global Digital Map Market:

The global digital map market size reached USD 6.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 15.7 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 12.73% during 2025-2033. The growing demand for location-based services across various industries, the proliferation of mobile devices and high-speed internet, and ongoing technological advancements in the industry represent some of the key factors driving the market growth.

Digital Map Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: Rising demand for location-based services across various industries, such as transportation, healthcare, construction, etc., is among the primary factors driving the market growth. In addition, rapid urbanization and ongoing development of smart cities are driving the demand for digital mapping solutions to manage urban infrastructure efficiently.
• Key Market Trends: Continuous advancements in mapping technology, integration of AR and VR technologies in digital mapping, and the emergence of autonomous vehicles are bolstering the market demand. In line with this, various companies are investing in mapping technologies specifically tailored for AVs, including HD mapping and real-time mapping solutions.
• Geographical Landscape: According to the report, North America acquired the largest share. The rising adoption of advanced technology is transforming the market environment, further boosting the demand for digital maps. Apart from this, the introduction of innovative digital map solutions by various tech giants including Google, Apple, Esri, and Microsoft, is significantly contributing to the region's growth.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the leading digital map market companies are Apple Inc., Collins Bartholomew, Digital Map Products Inc. (LightBox), Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc., Getmapping, Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.), HERE Technologies, MAPQUEST INC. (America Online), Maxar Technologies, Nearmap, ThinkGeo LLC, and TomTom International B.V., among many others.
• Challenges and Opportunities: Various factors, such as the rising privacy concerns, high cost of data acquisition and maintenance, security risks, and regulatory requirements, are some of the major challenges that digital map market is currently facing. However, continuous advancements in technologies like AI, machine learning, and IoT are among the digital map market recent opportunities. In addition, AI can improve data processing, while IoT devices can provide real-time data for dynamic mapping.

Digital Map Market Trends:

Rising Usage of Smartphones and Internet

The number of smartphone users across the globe has surged significantly, providing access to digital maps to a vast number of users worldwide. For instance, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) mobile subscriptions surpassed 8.58 billion in 2022 as compared to the global population of 7.95 billion halfway through the year. Additionally, smartphones equipped with GPS capabilities serve as powerful navigation devices, making digital maps indispensable for finding locations, getting directions, and planning routes. Location-based services (LBS), such as ride-hailing apps, food delivery services, and local business searches, heavily rely on digital maps. For instance, Zomato, one of the leading online food delivery apps delivered nearly 647 million orders in 2023. Besides this, the proliferation of mobile apps and platforms that utilize digital maps has surged. This includes navigation apps like Google Maps, Waze, and Apple Maps, as well as various specialized apps for specific purposes like travel, fitness, and social networking. For instance, Google Maps was the most downloaded map and navigation software in the U.S. in 2023. Waze came up second, with 9.89 million downloads during the time under review. In line with this, these apps provide functionalities beyond navigation, such as real-time traffic updates, public transportation information, and location-based recommendations. Apart from this, social networking platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat incorporate location-sharing features, enabling users to share their whereabouts with friends and discover nearby points of interest, further adding to the digital map market share.

Emergence of Autonomous Vehicles

The development and testing of autonomous vehicles require highly detailed and precise digital maps. Companies investing in autonomous driving technologies are fueling the demand for advanced mapping solutions. As self-driving cars become more prevalent, the demand for high-quality, real-time mapping data is increasing rapidly. In 2019, there were nearly 31 million automated cars across the globe, whereas the number of automated cars is expected to surpass 54 million in 2024. Moreover, digital maps are essential for autonomous vehicles to navigate safely and efficiently on the roads. Apart from this, companies in the digital map market are innovating to provide advanced mapping solutions that meet the unique requirements of autonomous vehicles. This trend is reshaping the industry landscape and driving significant investments in mapping technology, which is further adding to the digital map market revenue. For instance, in March 2023, Volkswagen ADMT GmbH, a part of Volkswagen AG, joined Mobileye Global Inc. to develop and supply hardware software components and digital maps for the self-driving ID. Buzz AD. In essence, the convergence of autonomous vehicles and digital maps is revolutionizing the way individuals move and accelerating the development of smart transportation systems. For instance, in February 2021, Vin Fast, a domestic manufacturer in Vietnam, obtained a license to conduct autonomous vehicle tests on public roads in California. To promote its electric cars in the U.S., the business applied for this permit.

Technological Advancements

The rising advancement of technology is positively impacting the digital map market outlook. IoT devices, such as GPS-enabled vehicles, wearables, and smart home devices, generate vast amounts of location-based data. This data is used to improve digital maps, providing more accurate and detailed information. For instance, in November 2023, Reliance Jio launched JioMotive, a plug-and-play 4G GPS tracker for cars. Since the auto tracker attaches to the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) connector of the car, it is simple to use. JioMotive can assist in tracking a variety of crucial activities, including driving habits and a vehicle's current location. Apart from this, the GPS also functions as a Wi-Fi hotspot for the car. In addition, the use of big data analytics and machine learning algorithms enables digital map providers to analyze large volumes of data, such as traffic patterns and user behavior, to improve mapping accuracy and provide more personalized services. In line with this, the surging integration of 3D maps is acting as another growth-inducing factor. For instance, in February 2024, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, assigned Genesys International Corporation, a leading mapping company, to develop a 3D Digital Twin of Varanasi. Utilizing the Genesys New India Map stack, the project is a significant step in Varanasi towards digital transformation. These factors are further expected to drive the digital map market demand in the coming years.

Digital Map Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global digital map market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on type, usage, solution, deployment mode, application, and end-use industry.

Breakup by Type:

• GIS
• LiDAR
• Digital Orthophotography
• Aerial Photography
• Others
   

GIS represented the largest segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the type. This includes GIS, LiDAR, digital orthophotography, aerial photography, and others. According to the digital map market report, GIS represented the largest segment.

GIS-powered maps are being used to leverage cellular connectivity and expand telecom networks in order to achieve real-time map execution and user accessibility. Digital map solutions are becoming more sophisticated with vector development and map simulation approaches as GIS manufacturers create mobile-based geospatial sensor platforms. For instance, the Central Water Authority of Mauritius implemented ESRI's Geographical Information System (GIS) technology across customer service operations. It allows a clear picture of the water distribution network to its stakeholders.

Breakup by Usage: 

• Indoor
• Outdoor
   

Outdoor accounted for the largest market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the usage has also been provided in the report. This includes indoor and outdoor. According to the report, outdoor accounted for the largest market share.

The rising adoption of outdoor maps in the automotive industry is proliferating the segment growth. In line with this, many outdoor enthusiasts use digital maps to track their sports activities, such as hiking, biking, running, and skiing. These apps provide features like real-time GPS tracking, distance measurement, elevation tracking, and performance analysis. Popular examples include Strava, MapMyRun, and Ski Tracks.

Breakup by Solution: 

• Software
• Services
   

Software represented the largest segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the solution. This includes software and services. According to the report, software represented the largest segment.

According to the digital map market overview, the increasing demand for mapping software is attributed to the surging usage of the internet. In line with this, with the proliferation of smartphones, more people have access to mapping applications. This has led to increased demand for mapping software that can provide navigation, location-based services, and real-time information. In addition, the integration of big data and artificial intelligence (AI) with mapping software has enabled advanced functionalities such as predictive analytics, route optimization, and real-time traffic updates. This has heightened the demand for mapping software that can handle and analyze large volumes of spatial data efficiently.

Breakup by Deployment Mode: 

• Cloud-based
• On-premise
   

On-premise accounted for the largest market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the deployment mode has also been provided in the report. This includes cloud-based and on-premise. According to the report, on-premise accounted for the largest market share.

Many businesses, especially those dealing with sensitive location data, have concerns about data security and privacy. With on-premises deployment, organizations have more control over their data and can ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). They can keep sensitive data within their own infrastructure, reducing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. Besides this, on-premise solutions offer greater customization and flexibility compared to cloud-based solutions. Organizations can tailor the digital mapping software to their specific needs and integrate it with their existing IT infrastructure. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for industries with unique requirements or complex workflows.

Breakup by Application: 

• Real-Time Location Data Management
• Geocoding and Geopositioning
• Routing and Navigation
• Asset Tracking
• Others
   

Routing and navigation represented the largest segment

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the application. This includes real-time location data management, geocoding and geopositioning, routing and navigation, asset tracking, and others. According to the report, routing and navigation represented the largest segment.

According to the digital map market statistics, the surging demand for routing and navigation is attributed to the growing urbanization and the expansion of transportation networks. This leads to a higher demand for efficient routing and navigation solutions. People are constantly on the move, whether commuting to work, traveling for leisure, or conducting business, and they rely on digital maps for navigation guidance. Apart from this, traffic congestion is a major concern in urban areas, leading to wasted time, fuel, and increased pollution. Routing and navigation solutions help users find the fastest routes, avoid traffic jams, and reduce travel time, thereby improving overall efficiency and reducing stress. For instance, in December 2023, the BMW Group launched new models with BMW/MINI Operating System 9 featuring a new navigation system supported by Mapbox. A 3D map layout that is immersive and incorporates dynamic lighting and accurate buildings, along with advanced navigation tools like route planning suited for charging, are among the latest additions.

Breakup by End-Use Industry: 

• Automotive
• Engineering and Construction
• Logistics and Transportation
• Energy and Utilities
• Military, Aerospace and Defense
• Others
   

Automotive accounted for the largest market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the digital map market based on the end-use industry has also been provided in the report. This includes automotive, engineering and construction, logistics and transportation, energy and utilities, military, aerospace and defense, and others. According to the report, automotive accounted for the largest market share.

Navigation systems have become standard features in modern automotive vehicles. Digital maps are the backbone of these systems, providing real-time guidance, turn-by-turn directions, and traffic updates. In addition, the development of connected and autonomous vehicles heavily relies on digital maps. These vehicles require highly detailed and accurate maps for precise localization, path planning, and decision-making. Digital maps enable CAVs to understand road conditions, recognize lane markings, and navigate complex environments safely. Consumers expect accurate and up-to-date maps integrated seamlessly into their vehicles for convenient and safe navigation. For instance, in January 2024, Toyota Motor Corporation integrated Mapbox software, which is a major provider of innovative mapping, navigation, and location-based technologies, in its vehicle navigation system. 

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America exhibits a clear dominance in the market

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America was the largest market for digital maps.

Some of the factors driving the North America digital map market included the rising demand for location-based services, increasing use of mobile technologies for navigation, and ongoing product innovation. These will continue to positively influence the digital map market forecast. Moreover, North America is a hub for location-based services, including navigation, geolocation-based marketing, and delivery services. The demand for digital maps is driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones and the increasing integration of location-based features into mobile apps and services. For instance, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) introduced ClickShop 2.0, an industry-first digital solution, in collaboration with AutoFi Inc. and Santander Consumer USA. With ClickShop 2.0, the car-buying process is seamlessly connected from the Tier-1 and Tier-3 websites of Mitsubishi Motors and its dealer partners to the Mitsubishi dealer showrooms, providing an unmatched and smooth shopping experience. Besides this, with the increasing urbanization and traffic congestion in major North American cities, there's a high demand for digital maps that provide accurate real-time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions, and predictive traffic analytics. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Waze are heavily used by commuters in North America.

Competitive Landscape:

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the global digital map market. Competitive analysis such as market structure, market share by key players, player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided. Some of the companies covered include:

• Apple Inc.
• Collins Bartholomew
• Digital Map Products Inc. (LightBox)
• Environmental Systems Research Institute Inc.
• Getmapping
• Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.)
• HERE Technologies
• MAPQUEST INC. (America Online)
• Maxar Technologies
• Nearmap
• ThinkGeo LLC
• TomTom International B.V.
   

(Kindly note that this only represents a partial list of companies, and the complete list has been provided in the report)

Digital Map Market Recent Developments:

• May 2024: The governments of Ontario, Canada, and the United Kingdom signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to exchange information and technology about digital mapping subterranean infrastructures. 
• April 2024: Mayor Eric Adams and Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez of the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) introduced a new program to supervise the testing of autonomous vehicles in the city. The program is a component of the city's effort to guarantee the responsible and safe investigation of driverless vehicles.
• January 2024: Toyota Motor Corporation (TOYOTA) revealed that Mapbox, a major supplier of cutting-edge mapping, navigation, and location-based technology, would incorporate Mapbox software into its in-car navigation systems. 

Digital Map Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the digital map market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global digital map market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the digital map industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.