Spotwalla Changes?

#1
Unsure if this has been mentioned or not here yet but it appears that Spotwalla has switched from Google Maps to an OSM (Open Street Maps) derivative that doesn't show as much detail. Not sure of the main reason for the change, however, I have to believe that it's probably related to google now charging for this sort of access now...

Wonder if this lack of detail will affect IBA certs. (it's fairly easy to compare the data to an actual google map...just maybe slower though now...).

<D>
 

kwthom

=o&o>
Premier Member
IBA Member
#2
Mentioned on FB a couple weeks ago...

https://www.facebook.com/permalink....-DVaO_6J1K0GKuR9U_8bC7q8rW_nL09qsxQ&__tn__=-R

There's also some conversation on the web forum for Spotwalla

https://spotwalla.freeforums.net/th...s-based-widget-configured?page=1&scrollTo=945

Jason said:
There's no doubt that Google Maps has the most detail and advanced functionality. Should we ever get to the point where we have to start charging for SpotWalla, allowing users to choose their desired mapping flavor is a distinct possibility. Until then, we're going to strive to keep things free and simple.
I think I'd rather the fees be used to keep the servers on and the functionality in place - since 2011.
 
#10
OK, I am retracting what I said the last time...sort of...

I was going over some older trips and noticed the map changes. The most recent trips are still Google. I guess all of them will be converted soon?
 

Stephen!

Flivver Flyer
Premier Member
IBA Member
IBR Finisher
#11
OK, I am retracting what I said the last time...sort of...

I was going over some older trips and noticed the map changes. The most recent trips are still Google. I guess all of them will be converted soon?
As I understood the process, it is happening incrementally. Areas that haven't yet been switched over, will be. When you look at older trips, you are actually seeing a brand-new representation of the old data built on-demand style on the map. The map and the data are not stored together.
 
#12
#13
OK, while we are at it - a useful tip I've recently learnt. When we share our trips, SpotWalla will minimize # of dots on the map. WE know to correct it to 100% - but normal citizens don't. If you add &fillFactor=100 to the end of the shared link it will show the entire uploaded data.

See this:
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=1999d5b2a0cbee8a1e&hoursPast=0&showAll=yes

Compared to this:
https://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=1999d5b2a0cbee8a1e&hoursPast=0&showAll=yes&fillFactor=100
Don't forget to add a track to your trip so that people know your route and not just where you are.