14 DAY TRIAL // As it continues to improve is ill-fated mapping service in the war against Google, Apple has acquired a company that specializes in mapping enclosed environments using Wi-Fi.
Apple wants to offer its customers the ability to detect an iPhone’s location in a building using Wi-Fi signals, according to a Wall Street Journal report.
To do this, the Cupertino, California-based giant has acquired WifiSLAM for $20 million / €15.4 million, according to a person who is familiar with the deal.
Apple usually doesn’t comment on rumors and speculation, but the company apparently wanted the word out. A spokesman confirmed to the newspaper that the deal has indeed gone through.
The spokesman said, “[Apple] buys smaller technology companies from time to time,” but declined to offer any specifics.
One of the co-founders of WifiSLAM is former Google software engineering intern Joseph Huang. He’ll most likely be working for Apple now.
Google already offers indoor mapping technology in airports and shopping centers.