Trimble acquires MyTopo for digital mapping

MyTopo's mapping technology will be used to expand Trimble's sports and fitness apps

Could Billings, Montana be the next Silicon Valley? No. But MyTopo, a Billings-based print and digital mapping company, had some big news today. The company has been acquired by Trimble, a publicly traded positioning technologies company that utilizes GPS, lasers, and optics for industries and outdoor enthusiasts. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Founded in 1998, MyTopo got its start as a provider of customized print map products for professional map users as well as recreational map users. The company has since branched out to the digital realm to support Internet-based map layers, digital map apps, Terrain Navigator—a suite of mapping software products, and print-on-demand customized waterproof maps.

The company specializes in its print-on-demand maps, which users can custom order directly from the website starting at $9.95. The site also offers free browsable online maps of the U.S. and Canada, as well as hunting maps showing public land ownership and big game unit boundaries.

Trimble will use MyTopo’s mapping products and technology to expand its Trimble Outdoors recreational offerings for the outdoorsy types, including AllSport GPS, an app that turns your mobile phone into a GPS-enabled trainer and workout tracker for outdoor biking, running, and walking; Trimble Outdoors, an app that helps you navigate and track your trip; and GeocacheNavigator, an app that turns the outdoors into a big treasure hunt in which players use their phones to locate hidden “treasures” called geocaches.

“The acquisition of MyTopo allows us to provide our customers with unique solutions for virtually every step of their adventures. From pre-planning trips at home to creating custom print maps to taking mobile maps into remote areas on their iPhone or Android phone," said Rich Rudow, GM for Trimble Outdoors, in a statement. "MyTopo brings top-notch maps with unparalleled quality and rich features to our customers and partners such as Cabela's and Backpacker magazine. We are excited to offer these unique services."

While Trimble Outdoors delivers recreational apps for sports and fitness, the company specializes in positioning technologies for industries like construction, surveying, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety, and, of course, mapping. Yesterday, the Sunnyvale-based company acquired seismic survey software provider Dynamic Survey Solutions. 

Image source: TrimbleOutdoors.com