HERE Integrates what3words Addressing System into In-Car API

The geocoding company what3words – which divides the globe into 3x3 meter squares and assigns each a distinct three-word identifier for easier location communication – has secured another integration for use in vehicles, achieved through a collaboration with Here Technologies.

The companies announced today that vehicle manufacturers utilizing Here’s navigation platform can now incorporate what3words as a built-in navigation feature by directly accessing it through the Here Search API, eliminating the need for separate integration processes. Current users of the platform will gain access to what3words’ addressing technology with a simple software update.

Here Technologies reports that its mapping data services are currently integrated into 150 million vehicles globally.

This is not the first instance of what3words being integrated into vehicles; the company has identified automobiles as a particularly suitable application for its straightforward and easily remembered addressing method. Last year, the startup, founded in 2013, established a partnership with Ford. Daimler is also among its investors.

Allowing drivers to use voice or text input of three words to specify a destination in their car’s navigation system offers a significant advantage over the need to accurately enter a complete address. what3words also provides a more precise location than standard postal codes – and functions effectively for locations lacking a conventional street address, such as the beginning of a walking path or a designated parking area, or a specific entry point to a large complex.

what3words also highlights that its technology has been implemented by numerous international automotive manufacturers, logistics companies, and mobility applications, including Mercedes-Benz, Tata Motors, DB Schenker, Hermes, and Cabify.

Recently, the innovative addressing system has also gained traction with Airbnb, offering a simplified method for sharing locations for unique accommodation types.

Chris Sheldrick, CEO and co-founder of what3words, stated in a press release: “We are experiencing growing interest from both automakers and mobility service providers. By being integrated within Here, we can readily enable our addressing system in both new and existing vehicles.”

Jørgen Behrens, SVP and chief product officer at Here Technologies, added in a supporting statement: “Automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers can now offer the what3words service to their customers through the Here Search API, rather than undertaking integration independently. This will empower drivers to navigate effortlessly in congested urban areas with unconventional addressing systems or to reach any destination, whether it’s a local establishment or a hiking trail.”