This is a trend that digital mobile maps increasingly reflect

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, and – with the help of satellites, GPS, traffic reports, and surveillance camera data
– do so with increasing accuracy. (Uber, by the way, is starting
to test its own mapping systems to rely less on Google.) This accuracy will matter
more and more in a future where maps are read by computers, like
the self-driving cars that drive us around.

When that happens, other old-world markers — like
street signs — will gradually disappear. The idea of ​​a city with thailand whatsapp number list no street signs
is a bit daunting. At least it was to me when
my colleague Ian Bogost wrote about it last month. He hit on the same
point as my Uber driver.
Modern maps are free, but they’re incredibly valuable.

Google or Apple may restrict access to their mapping services in
regions that do not adhere to
political positions consistent with their corporate interests. They may even decide to influence this
political environment. In America, road signs are designed for human drivers, traffic lights and stop signs are everywhere
.

When these devices are no longer
needed, the corresponding markers will disappear too. Perhaps tech giants can convince municipalities
to remove street signs and markers to make traffic clearer and
less distracting through the synergy of networks connecting the app, the street, and
the car.

Driverless cars will completely change the appearance of city streets in just 50 years
Driverless cars will completely change the appearance of city streets in just 50 years
It's strange to imagine the physical world without these familiar markers
, but road signs have changed dramatically since the first distance
posts on the roads of Ancient Rome. They have evolved even in recent
decades.