Routing app uses space to guide cyclists

London-based company Beeline has developed a navigation app encouraging cyclists to maintain social-distancing measures on the road. The app guides people on safer, more enjoyable bike journeys.

The GPS system uses space data and crowdsourced information to generate route suggestions.

The new app tracks smartphone location by means of GPS.

What is more, it uses sources such as road elevation maps derived from Earth observing satellites, as well as data on cycle infrastructure, accident hotspots and much more.

It combines this with crowdsourced information provided through in-ride feedback from cyclists and then uses an algorithm to determine the most pleasant way of getting from A to B.

This means the system can learn about the preferences of individual cyclists, so route suggestions taking into account their skill and experience level.

Once changes occur, the suitability of routes updates by using crowdsourced information. For instance, when the municipal authorities install new cycle infrastructure and facility, your app is already aware of this change.

Via Bluetooth a device displays info about journey progress, direction prompts, speed, allowing the cyclists to focus on the road and navigate at the same time.

As well as individual cyclists, the app will be used by delivery companies to search for faster, safer routes, and bike-share companies to suggest pleasant journeys to their customers.