Protomaps – A free and open source map of the world (protomaps.com)

Article summary

Protomaps is a free and open source map of the world that allows frontend developers to easily self-host maps without requiring server setup. It uses HTTP range requests to serve vector map tiles, making it simple and affordable. The project provides a basemap tileset built from OpenStreetMap and other open data sources, and offers a hosted API for noncommercial use. Commercial use requires a GitHub sponsorship.

Main themes

• open source mapping
• self-hosted maps
• vector map tiles
• offline maps
• data formats
• commercial vs noncommercial use
• data accuracy
• revenue models for open source software

What commenters say

• Some commenters are interested in using Protomaps to create offline maps with simplified data, such as country outlines and region names.
• Others argue that using SVG for maps is not ideal due to its text-based nature and data heaviness.
• The choice of domain name and company structure has led to some confusion about the project's commercial status and goals.
• The project's owner clarifies that it is a commercial venture, but with a focus on open source software and community-friendly licenses.
• Some commenters appreciate the potential cost savings of using Protomaps and PMTiles for custom-styled map tiles.
• Others discuss the importance of data accuracy and how publications can verify the accuracy of map data.
• There are different opinions on the suitability of various data formats, such as GeoPackage and Topojson, for map data storage and querying.
• The project's use of a hosted API and GitHub sponsorships as a revenue model is seen as a way to support the developer's work while keeping the software open source.