Pokemon Go Data Used to Train AI for Robots and Drones
Niantic Spatial, a spin-off from Pokemon Go developer Niantic, is using billions of real-world images captured by millions of players to train AI for navigation. This data, collected via the game and Scaniverse app, is being used for delivery robots and potentially military drones, sparking scrutiny over the game's unintended technological legacy.
Key points
- Niantic Spatial, spun off from Pokemon Go creator Niantic, is developing AI using player-submitted real-world images.
- The AI aims to create a 3D model of the physical world for navigation technologies.
- Data comes from billions of images captured by millions of Pokemon Go and Scaniverse app users.
- Applications include navigation for delivery robots and potentially military drones.
- Niantic sold its licensed games, including Pokemon Go, to Scopely in May 2025 before the spin-off.
An artificial intelligence company, Niantic Spatial, has been utilizing billions of real-world images captured by millions of players of the augmented reality game Pokémon Go. This data is being used to develop AI systems designed for navigation, with potential applications ranging from delivery robots to military drones.
Niantic Spatial was established as a separate entity from Pokémon Go's developer, Niantic, in May 2025. This occurred after Niantic divested its licensed games, including Pokémon Go, to the Saudi-backed publisher Scopely. Prior to this sale, Niantic had announced intentions to leverage scans from Pokémon Go players and its Scaniverse application to train a comprehensive "large geospatial model" – essentially a 3D digital replica of the world.
The use of these geolocated images, collected as players documented their physical surroundings, is now drawing attention for its unintended implications in the development of advanced AI technologies. The raw visual data provided by users is a key component in training Niantic Spatial's foundation models, which learn to interpret and navigate the physical environment.
Sources
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