What is Azure Maps?
Azure Maps is a collection of geospatial services that provide maps, routing, search, traffic information, and more. Developers can integrate location features into applications without managing their own map data or infrastructure.
The platform offers SDKs for web and mobile as well as REST APIs for integration into any applications and IoT solutions.
Core Features
- Interactive maps with Web SDK and Android SDK
- Routing for cars, trucks, bicycles, and pedestrians
- Geocoding and reverse geocoding
- Real-time traffic data and incident information
- Geofencing for location-based triggers and alerts
- Weather Services for forecasts and current conditions
Typical Use Cases
Fleet management: Real-time vehicle tracking, optimized route planning, and geofencing alerts when entering or leaving defined areas.
Delivery services: ETA calculation, dynamic route adjustment based on traffic, and integration of tracking features into customer apps.
IoT and asset tracking: Visualization of sensor locations on maps, correlation of location data with telemetry, and setup of location-based automations.
Benefits
- Alternative to Google Maps with Azure integration
- Creator service for indoor maps (airports, shopping centers)
- Data residency in the EU possible
- Unified billing through Azure invoice
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Azure Maps differ from Google Maps?
Azure Maps offers comparable features but integrates seamlessly into the Azure ecosystem with Azure AD, Managed Identities, and Azure Monitor. For Microsoft customers, billing through existing Azure contracts is often easier.
Are there free tiers?
Yes, Azure Maps offers monthly free quotas for most APIs. For example, 2,500 map tiles and 5,000 searches per month are free. After that, usage-based billing applies.
Can I add my own map data?
Yes, the Data Service allows uploading custom GeoJSON data to display on maps. The Creator service also enables creating indoor maps from CAD files.
Which regions are supported for routing?
Azure Maps supports routing worldwide with detailed data for North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Coverage varies by region.
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you with Azure Maps: map integration, IoT scenarios, fleet management, and location-based applications.
