DiscoverSpatial Stack with Matt Forrest#32: Why Meta Is Betting Big on Open Maps
#32: Why Meta Is Betting Big on Open Maps

#32: Why Meta Is Betting Big on Open Maps

Update: 2025-12-04
Share

Description

Meta has more than 3 billion users across Instagram, WhatsApp, and even its new AR glasses. Behind the scenes, all of them are powered by one thing: maps. But instead of relying on closed systems, Meta is betting big on open data—and building its own global map.

In this episode, I talk with Said Turksever from Meta, who leads their open mapping strategy. We dive into:

🌍 Why Meta cares so much about maps
🛠 The tools they’re building with AI and open source
🏙 How cities from Phoenix to Naples are being transformed by open data
🚶 The future of pedestrian mapping and accessibility
🤝 The role of communities in shaping the next generation of maps

From disaster response to daily navigation, the impact of open mapping stretches far beyond social media. This is a conversation about technology, community, and the future of how we navigate the world.

🚀 Ready to move beyond desktop GIS?
Step into the Spatial Lab: a global community for ambitious geospatial professionals who want to break out of outdated workflows and join the top 5% of the field.
👉 Join Spatial Lab: https://forrest.nyc/spatial-lab/

🎓 Want structured, career-changing learning?

🚀 Modern GIS Accelerator: https://forrest.nyc/accelerator/
— master Python, Spatial SQL & cloud workflows in 6 weeks

🧭 Career Compass: https://forrest.nyc/career-compass/
— fast, practical steps to land the GIS role you want

🪄 AI Copilot for GIS: https://forrest.nyc/ai-copilot-for-gis/
— learn to integrate AI into your geospatial workflows & boost your productivity

📰 Weekly modern GIS insights: https://forrest.nyc

⚡️ Spots for the next live cohort and mentorship cycle are closing soon,  join now to lock in your place and momentum.

CONNECT WITH ME
📸 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/matt_forrest/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mbforr/
📧 Newsletter: https://forrest.nyc
🌐 Website: https://forrest.nyc

Comments 
In Channel
loading
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

#32: Why Meta Is Betting Big on Open Maps

#32: Why Meta Is Betting Big on Open Maps

Matt Forrest