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I’m having a hard time deciding if Norway is smart or paranoid as a report is confirmed that Apple has been refused permission to photograph Oslo from airplanes to create 3D models for its Maps app. I understand the basic security concerns surrounding the issue but it seems that other platforms such as Google Maps with Street View present much of the same issue.
As reported by the BBC, Norway is concerned about government buildings and restricted areas, and after the bomb scare and killing spree several years ago it makes sense. Governmental security is also a hot topic right now with the NSA under scrutiny following security leaks and this is affecting how things are handled around the globe.
This morning I looked to see what Google Maps offered in the Oslo area and found no 3D images but had an interesting time exploring the brand new Google Maps system. It reminded me of how much progress Google seems to be making recently in its mapping technology while Apple Maps have essentially stayed the same since their release. I can imagine the meeting at Google when Apple released their Maps app and the decision to make sure they stayed ahead in the mapping game which they have certainly accomplished.
The news concerning Oslo does mean a couple of things. First, Apple is indeed still at work updating content and continuing to improve their data base around the world. Second, it’s easy for Google to seem ahead of the game with an interface update when they have access to mature data and have been in the maps game longer than Apple. Apple has a ways to go to catch up but it doesn’t seem like it is being ignored. Third, Apple’s new software releases this fall will bring new mapping features and it will be interesting to see what rolls out in the final releases.
There are other ways to get 3D images of Oslo and even the government officials there are willing to make an effort.
However, a spokeswoman for Norway’s National Security Authority indicated there might still be ways for Apple to add a Flyover view of Oslo to its app.
“It is correct is that we have denied Apple the possibility to take air photos over the Oslo area,” she told the BBC.
“The reason is that there are restriction areas in this region. We have suggested alternative ways to get the images it wants, as we generally do to be flexible.
“One way would be to contact a Norwegian supplier who already has a licence. Another way would be to just buy the needed mapping from the Norwegian Mapping Authority.”
Security is an important consideration and the balance between sharing information online, such as 3D mapping images, and privacy has not been definitively defined. We’ll see if this becomes a trend for cities and governments to refuse mapping or if this is an isolated example.
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