Uber acquires mapping firm deCarta

NEW YORK: App-based taxi aggregator Uber has acquired US-based mapping and local search engine deCarta for an undisclosed sum.

Founded in 1996, deCarta provides a software platform that focuses on location-based features, including mapping, local search and turn-by-turn navigation.

"With the acquisition of deCarta, we will continue to fine-tune our products and services that rely on maps - for example UberPOOL, the way we compute ETAs, and others - and make the Uber experience even better for our users," a Uber spokesperson told PTI.

A lot of the functionality that makes the Uber app so reliable, affordable and seamless is based on mapping technologies, he added.

According to market insiders, the deal will close later this week in which the cab service provider is targetting deCarta's technology and talent.

As part of the deal, deCarta will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Uber but use its original name.

deCarta CEO President Kim Fennell along with a 30-member team of the company will move to the subsidiary after the deal closes.