A new topography for 3D mapping technology

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Hello reader,

Have you ever played GeoGuessr? It’s a browser-based game where you get a Google Maps Street View image and have to guess where it is. I’m absolutely rubbish at it, but it’s a pretty fun way to “tour” the world from the comfort of your home.

Google Maps’ Street View feature certainly seems unbeatable. After all, these incredibly accurate renderings of the world are the result of huge amounts of money and manpower, painstakingly captured by 360 cameras mounted atop cars, helmets, and even camels.

However, emerging technologies are changing the game. With tools like AI, it may be possible for companies to generate these 3D renderings of the world without needing the same kind of resources as Google. The startup featured in today’s premium story does just that.

Today we look at:

• A Singapore-based firm that’s changing up 3D mapping
• Funding Societies’ latest fundraise
• Other newsy highlights such as layoffs at Lazada and new interest rate rules for Indonesia’s online lenders

Premium summary

More than mapping

Image credit: Timmy Loen

With the help of satellite imagery and proprietary deep-learning algorithms, Singapore-based Vizzio Technologies generates 3D maps of cities that can capture the way they really look and feel. Think Google Maps’ Street View, but a lot less resource-intensive.

Let’s take a closer look at the company.

• The real world at your fingertips:. Vizzio, which was founded in 2020, is currently working with governments on defense, urban planning, and construction projects, among others. Saudi Arabia’s government is using the company’s tech to track progress at construction sites for the King Abdullah Economic City project.
• Other tools in the box: Last year, Vizzio established two subsidiaries: Polytron AI, which specializes in designing 3D cameras, and 3 Dimensions AI, a joint venture with Singapore-based DP Architects. While Polytron is still in its early stages, Vizzio expects 60% of its total revenue in the future to come from the unit.
• Numbers, numbers: According to Vizzio, its revenue stood at US$18 million for the financial year ended June 2023, a 9x growth compared to the year before. The company expects a minimum of US$50 million in revenue for this financial year, and it’s also looking to become profitable.

Read more: The SG startup showing how 3D mapping isn’t just Google’s game to lose

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