Uber Buys Part of Bing Maps; Plans to Rely Less on Google Maps?

Uber has bought Microsoft's mapping tech to lessen reliance on Google Maps.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella warned last week in a letter to employees that the firm would soon be making some "tough decisions" about the technology it needs for the future, and probably mapping was first on that list.

The news was confirmed by Uber on Monday. The sum at which it acquired the mapping assets was not disclosed.

Reportedly, roughly 100 of Microsoft's Bing Maps engineers will move to Uber.

Uber will also gain a data center, cameras and image-analyzing software.

"We're excited about the talent and technology this acquisition brings," said an Uber spokesperson.

"Mapping is at the heart of what makes Uber great. So we'll continue to work with partners, as well as invest in our own technology, to build the best possible experience for riders and drivers."

"Over the past year, we have taken many actions to focus the company's efforts around our core business strategy," added a Microsoft spokesperson.

"In keeping with these efforts, we will no longer collect mapping imagery ourselves, and instead will continue to partner with premium content and imagery providers for underlying data while concentrating our resources on the core user experience."

"With this decision, we will transfer many of our imagery acquisition operations to Uber."

According to earlier reports, Uber was eyeing up Nokia's Here mapping business.