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Frequently Asked Questions
NAVTEQ Street-level Imagery Drive
Q: What is street-level imagery?
A: Street-level imagery refers to panoramic images enabling users to "look around" a 360-degree photo. These images are typically used to supplement maps, directions and local search, and are collected using specially-equipped vehicles outfitted with an array of cameras. Street-level imagery is generally served from a website and makes use of a proprietary "viewer" embedded in a standard internet browser.
Q. How is this different than what you have collected in the past?
A: NAVTEQ has always utilized specially-equipped vehicles to collect data about roadways, landmarks and other Points-of-Interest (POIs) to develop our digital maps. The makers of in-car navigation systems, GPS devices, smartphones and software applications then use our data in the products they offer to you. Now, in partnership with Microsoft, we will use some vehicles to collect this street-level imagery as well.
Q. Where will street-level images be collected?
A: The primary focus will be on public roads of commercial interest and areas with high concentration of Points-of-Interest (POIs).
Q. How and when will images be created?
A: Street-level images will be created using cameras mounted on clearly marked cars that will travel through selected areas. These images are recorded in the vehicles and are later transferred to a secure facility for image and privacy processing.
Q: Will the cars be easily identifiable?
A: Yes. The vehicles will be clearly marked with the NAVTEQ and Microsoft Bing logos.
Q: How does street-level imagery affect privacy?
A: NAVTEQ is working closely with the appropriate government authorities on a per-country basis to enable our street-level imagery activities to comply with applicable laws governing the acquisition and publishing of imagery.
Q: How is the removal of identifiable personal data handled?
A: NAVTEQ uses industry-leading, automated software and advanced algorithms to detect and blur portions of images that may raise privacy concerns, including faces and license plates. The automated software and advanced algorithms are based on years of research investments made by our partner Microsoft in computer vision techniques.
Q: How accurate is the blurring?
A: Internal testing has shown that the privacy algorithms and detection rates are among the best available in the industry. As with all automated approaches, there is a chance that some images may come through that should have been blurred. In those instances, NAVTEQ is providing internet-based services for individuals to identify and report concerns of any published images directly to us.
Q: What happens if someone requests an image be removed?
A: Each removal request is individually handled, and reviewed promptly by a team of experts to ensure appropriate response.
Q: What takedown requests will be honored?
A: NAVTEQ accepts requests to blur or remove images of faces or persons, homes, license plates, acts of violence, nudity and unlawful material.
Q: How long will it take to respond to a request to remove or blur an image?
A: Depending on the nature of the reported image, the turn-around time to change our database is generally a few days.
Q: How long will unblurred street level images be retained?
A: We keep original street-level imagery for one year or in accordance with local laws in order to assist with continued development of street level imagery technology and privacy algorithms.
Q: Will communities be notified that filming will occur in their neighborhoods?
A: In accordance with each country's requirements as appropriate, NAVTEQ will publish broad notification of filming locations and dates through local media channels and publish the information on our website. The specially-equipped vehicles will be clearly marked with the NAVTEQ and Microsoft Bing logos.
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