As it continues to improve is ill-fated mapping service in the war against Google, Apple has acquired a company that specializes in mapping enclosed environments using WiFi.
Apple wants to offer its customers the ability to detect an iPhone’s location in a building using Wi-Fi signals, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
To do this, the Cupertino, California-based giant has acquired WifiSLAM for $20 million / €15.4 million, according to a person who is familiar with the deal.
Apple usually doesn’t comment on rumors and speculation, but the company apparently wanted the word out. A spokesman confirmed to the newspaper that the deal has indeed gone through.
The spokesman said “[Apple] buys smaller technology companies from time to time,” but declined to offer any specifics.
One of the co-founders of WifiSLAM is former Google software engineering intern Joseph Huang. He’ll most likely be working for Apple now.
Google already offers indoor mapping technology in airports and shopping centers.
Via: Apple Buys Indoor-Mapping Company WifiSLAM [WSJ]
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