GrabMaps’ route to a $1b market in SEA

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Hello reader,

I’ve spent uncountable hours frustrated by traffic that seems to last forever. I could trust local drivers and take a shorter route, but it hasn’t been the best idea in all instances.

Hi Grab executives. If you’re reading this, please consider introducing GrabMaps to the Indian market. (Directionally challenged users like me are going to be eternally grateful.)

If you’re wondering why I’ve hyped up GrabMaps, it’s going to give you access to back alleys and narrow side streets that drivers and riders often rely on to cut travel times and avoid traffic jams.

While GrabMaps could cut a user’s total fare by a couple of bucks, will the B2B service make money for its parent firm? Likely not soon. Keep scrolling through and I’ll get you up to speed with the newest buzz in town.

Today we look at:

• How GrabMaps plans to beat Google Maps in Southeast Asia
• A new messaging application for Web3
• Other newsy highlights such as Animoca Brands’ entry into the edtech sector and an Indian D2C firm’s fresh fundraise.

Also, do fill out this CDP x Tech in Asia questionnaire survey and be part of our campaign to help the startup ecosystem go green.

Premium summary

Grab vs. Google Maps

Image credit: Timmy Loen

Grab’s new B2B service, GrabMaps, will enable customers to take advantage of the super app’s location-based intelligence and tech.

The super app says this is a US$1 billion market opportunity in Southeast Asia, and it has raised the prospect of offering it to users outside the region as well. While GrabMaps isn’t a consumer play, the super app does appear to have a unique edge over existing players in chasing enterprise map users.

• What’s this edge you speak of?: Global map providers don’t have a detailed understanding of Southeast Asia’s roads, so many Tier 2 and 3 cities are insufficiently mapped. In contrast, Grab’s drivers and delivery partners navigate alternate passageways daily. With this, the super app can update its maps with fresh data and real-time feedback.

Telegram for Web3?

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