Locus Store can be simply described as an e-commerce system. Locus users can download or view online different data in order to use them in Locus Map app. These data can be in various forms (maps, POIs, tracks, etc…). Users can get data for free or for a fee – it depends on requirements of the data provider. This article is focused on distribution of map data (most common situation) but almost all facts have the same relevance to other types of data as well.
The way of map sales in Locus Store depends on the data distribution options of their provider. In principle, it accepts two basic models: the provider provides data online via a map server and / or the provider is able to provide data as raster files.
In case the map data are available at a web server of the provider in a form of map tiles we offer three different models in Locus Store. Locus supports the main web map systems like Google tile system, TMS server, WMTS server or OSM Slippy map.
This model offers map data in a form of offline (map) packages. Locus Store contains definitions of areas of particular offline maps (like paper map crops). When the user purchases an area, Locus downloads all needed tiles for defined area. The package remains on device of the user.
We are also able to prepare packages in advance and store packages on our server. Prepared packages on our side can decrease load on your map server and it reduces possibility of some network issue like incorrectly downloaded tiles, temporary map server issues, etc. The price can be defined per downloaded tile or per package.
Users can view the map online for free but offline downloading is charged. Users can select area for downloading and Locus downloads the needed tiles. Provider can define the price per tile.
Both online and offline access to map data is charged. The user must pay monthly/annual subscription to display online map or download custom area. He/she is able to download unlimited area during the subscription. Downloaded maps are blocked when subscription expires.
It is possible to imagine this system as standard e-commerce solution for selling paper maps. Our users can purchase offline packages that are created from providers raster data. Basically the publisher provides raster images – for example equivalent to their paper maps. We convert these images into “Locus” format and prepare packages for the Locus Store.
We accept any geo-referenced raster format that is supported by GDAL utilities.
We are able to prepare a security mechanism (for all described models) that prevents abuse of your data. Because its details can be quite specific, feel free to ask us.
All items in Locus Store can be purchased for our internal virtual currency LoCoins. Users can get LoCoins for real money via Google in app billing (we’re planning to add support for PayPal payments, etc.). Approximate price of 100 LoCoins is 1 euro + VAT. More info here >>
The purchase itself can be performed in three different ways: