skobbler GmbH

Skobbler GmbH emerged in 2008, founded by Philipp Gartsher, Marcus Thielking, and Philipp Kandal, leveraging the burgeoning capabilities of the OpenStreetMap (OSM) project. The company established itself as a significant player in the mobile navigation space, building a reputation for providing feature-rich and cost-effective mapping solutions. Their core business centered on developing GPS navigation applications for various smartphone platforms, including iOS and Android, targeting individual consumers seeking an alternative to established players like Google Maps and TomTom. Skobbler's revenue model was primarily based on the sale of its premium navigation apps and in-app purchases for additional features, such as offline maps and audio turn-by-turn directions.

The company's flagship product, 'GPS Navigation 2', was built on the Skobbler NGx mapping engine, which enabled a hybrid approach to data usage. This technology allowed maps to be stored directly on the device for offline access, a considerable advantage for users concerned about mobile data consumption or traveling in areas with poor connectivity. The applications offered a comprehensive suite of features, including turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic information, speed camera warnings, and various map styles. A key differentiator for Skobbler was its foundation on the open-source OpenStreetMap data, which was continuously updated by a global community, allowing the company to offer highly detailed and up-to-date maps at a lower cost base than competitors who relied on proprietary data.

The journey of the founding team is rooted in a shared passion for mobile technology and mapping. Their foresight in capitalizing on the open-source OSM data allowed them to build a scalable and competitive product. This strategic choice ultimately proved successful. The company's trajectory culminated in a significant milestone in 2014 when it was acquired by Telenav, Inc., a US-based leader in location-based services, for approximately $24 million. This acquisition marked a strategic exit for the founders and integrated Skobbler's OSM expertise and technology into Telenav's broader portfolio, aiming to enhance their competitive position against major industry players. Keywords: GPS navigation, mobile mapping, OpenStreetMap, offline maps, location-based services, Telenav acquisition, iOS applications, Android applications, turn-by-turn navigation, mobile technology