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What are vector maps?

Modern vector technology makes the maps on our portal and in the app precise in appearance and fast and responsive to use.

How vector maps work

Unlike raster maps, vector maps consist of many different layers. Each layer contains different information. These are shown or hidden depending on the zoom level of the map, which makes the display very clear.

A vector map requires significantly less data volume to display, due to the smaller total amount of data. At a certain zoom depth, the information of all layers is already calculated. This means that in high zoom levels no more map information has to be reloaded.

Thanks to this technology, smooth zooming is possible. The map remains absolutely detailed and sharp, regardless of the zoom level. There is no loss of image quality, regardless of the device - whether smartphone or tablet, low- or high-resolution monitor.


Good to Know

The information on the individual layers, e.g. location names, are automatically resized to match the zoom level of the map. They retain their horizontal orientation even when the map is rotated.

Route networks and route geometries can also be embedded in one of the layers. This prevents them from obscuring other objects. For comparison: With raster maps, such elements are displayed by simple cross-fading.

Switching from summer to winter style can also be done without reloading because all map elements are recolored directly on the device.

We are the only platform worldwide that can offer such a detailed topographic vector map.


Recommended Reading

  • The Outdooractive Map
  • Saving routes and maps offline
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