Snap to Roads is now available for Azure Maps
We’re thrilled to introduce the Snap to Roads API in Azure Maps, a powerful API designed to transform raw GPS data into precise road-aligned coordinates. This new capability is a game-changer for businesses managing fleets and mobile assets, delivering the accuracy and context needed for efficient operations. Whether your GPS data is impacted by weak signals or environmental obstructions, the Snap to Roads API ensures your tracking is precise. By aligning GPS points with real-world roads and enriching them with additional data like speed limits and street names, it provides the clarity and insights you need for informed decision-making. Why Snap to Roads Matters If you’ve ever struggled with analyzing GPS traces that zigzag across the map or deviate from the road, you know how frustrating it can be. The Snap to Roads API addresses these issues head-on. It not only maps your GPS points to the nearest roads but also interpolates missing data to create a smooth, accurate path. This has significant implications for fleet management. For instance, you can verify speed limit compliance, detect route deviations, and better estimate travel times. These insights lead to improved resource management, heightened driver safety, and, ultimately, happier customers. How It Works The Snap to Roads API processes GPS data to return road-aligned coordinates along with enriched information. Here’s a simple example to illustrate its capabilities: Sample API Call: POST https://atlas.microsoft.com/route/snapToRoads?api-version=2024-07-01-preview { "type": "FeatureCollection", "features": [ { "type": "Feature", "geometry": { "coordinates": [ -122.336729, 47.590868 ], "type": "Point" }, "properties": {} }, { "type": "Feature", "geometry": { "coordinates": [ -122.336042, 47.601604 ], "type": "Point" }, "properties": {} } ], "includeSpeedLimit": true, "travelMode": "driving" } Response: { "type": "FeatureCollection", "features": [ { "type": "Feature", "geometry": { "coordinates": [ -122.336769, 47.590885 ], "type": "Point" }, "properties": { "inputIndex": 0, "name": "WA-99 N", "speedLimitInKilometersPerHour": 80 } }, { "type": "Feature", "geometry": { "coordinates": [ -122.336008, 47.601609 ], "type": "Point" }, "properties": { "inputIndex": 1, "name": "WA-99 N", "speedLimitInKilometersPerHour": 80 } } ] } In this example, the Snap to Roads API aligns the GPS points to the nearest road, providing interpolated points to fill in gaps and speed limit data for each segment. Consider a delivery company managing a large fleet. Drivers report delays due to unclear routing, and GPS traces often show vehicles cutting across buildings or parks. By integrating the Snap to Roads API, the company can ensure all GPS data aligns with actual roadways, providing a clear picture of each vehicle’s journey. This helps in multiple ways: Monitoring Driver Compliance: Ensuring drivers adhere to speed limits and follow designated routes. Optimizing Delivery Routes: Identifying bottlenecks and optimizing routes for faster deliveries. Improving Customer Experience: Providing accurate ETAs and real-time location updates to customers. Going Beyond: The Power of Azure Maps Snap to Roads is just one piece of the puzzle. Azure Maps offers a comprehensive suite of APIs for managing complex logistics operations. From Truck Routing that considers vehicle dimensions and restrictions to the Distance Matrix API for calculating optimal routes between multiple locations, Azure Maps equips you with everything you need for intelligent fleet management. Try It Today Experience the Snap to Roads API and see how it can transform your fleet operations. Get started by checking out the tutorial and dive into the full API documentation. With Azure Maps, you’re not just tracking vehicles—you’re unlocking insights and driving efficiency like never before.
