Niantic Spatial Says Pokémon Go Data Now Being Used to Train Delivery Robots, as 'Getting Pikachu to Realistically Run Around' Is 'Actually the Same Problem' - IGN

Pokémon Go creator Niantic is using players' augmented reality data to help train delivery robots. Now rebranded as Niantic Spatial, the company has joined forces with robotic startup Coco to help its fleet of 1000 suitcase-sized delivery vehicles trundle safely through busy city streets — just as Pikachu might, if he were real. While Pokémon Go (plus Pikmin Bloom and Monster Hunter Now) are now owned and operated by Monopoly Go maker Scopely, Niantic still retains the database of augmented reality data collected over the years — during which time, the company has received millions of real-world scans submitted by players. To be clear, these are consciously recorded and uploaded video scans of a specific real-world location already identified in-game — a PokéStop or Gym location, essentially — such as a piece of street art or notable building. This is not something Niantic has been harvesting quietly while your phone is in your pocket. Niantic Spatial has not been shy about its need for real-world data it can plug into an augmented reality map of the world, useful for a future where we're all using AR-enhanced technology to navigate the planet, in cars or on foot — or to receive yo