Google Maps starts collecting dash cam footage to fix inaccurate speed limits: All the details

Google Maps

Google is teaming up with third-party companies to use footage captured from commercial dash cameras to find and verify real-world changes such as new traffic signs or changes to the speed limit. The footage captured from the dashboards of delivery drivers at DPD and from users of Nextbase cameras in the United Kingdom (UK), who’ve opted-in to a road safety program, is currently being used by the company.

Google Maps uses dash cam video to update road data: Key details

A recent report by Android Police editor Dallas Thomas confirms that Google has added a new Help Centre Page titled ‘Collecting imagery from third-party providers (dash cam),’ where Google is testing dashcam videos in the UK. The page also mentions that the tech giant is only using footage from two specific companies, namely Geopost, which handles various shipping solutions in Europe, and Nextbase, the UK’s leading dashcam company.

Google has also assured that the dash camera footage is being used for a single purpose, which is monitoring speed limit changes. Moreover, the recorded videos are only being shared by Geopost drivers and members of Nextbase’s Road Safety Club, who have specifically agreed to participate in this program.

The videos collected from these dashcams don't include any sound, and Google suggests it's only requesting footage "in areas where we indicate that an update to our map is needed."  Additionally, Google has assured that the data appearing in these videos will blur all the personal details, including faces and license plates. The recordings received from dashcams will also be eliminated shortly after use.