Can a map service become smarter with the help of a large language model? This question intrigued a Reddit user, who spent the Christmas holidays exploring the answer. The result was a project called Godview, which connects a world map with a large language model. This innovative tool allows users to find specific locations worldwide using simple prompts.
Godview is surprisingly effective given the short development time. For example, using the prompt “Padel-Tennis in Hannover” will display all padel courts in the German city. Similarly, “rural vacation places in Italy” will show remote vacation spots in Italy. The tool highlights up to four locations per prompt, and users can remove past prompts from their search history.
Although Godview is primarily designed in English, it can process some German prompts as well. However, it may not always work perfectly with non-English queries.
The idea for Godview arose from a personal necessity. The creator, a Reddit user, wanted to expand a physical store and needed geodata to scout locations across the country. Godview helped him analyze the competition and choose the best location. This tool can be valuable for businesses looking to explore new markets.
In the future, the creator plans to add more features, such as area and demographic data, to enhance the map’s functionality. However, it is not yet a serious competitor to Google Maps. Despite this, it is a fun and useful tool for exploring various places.
Godview demonstrates the potential of integrating language models with map services, offering a unique way to interact with geographical data. This project opens up possibilities for further development and innovation in the field of digital mapping.
In conclusion, Godview is an exciting project that combines language models with mapping technology, providing users with an innovative way to discover locations worldwide. While it is not yet a replacement for established map services, it offers a glimpse into the future of interactive mapping.