According to Cointelegraph, Southeast Asia's superapp Grab has entered into a partnership with Natix, a project within Solana's decentralized physical infrastructure network (DePIN), to advance mapping and autonomous driving technologies. This collaboration seeks to integrate Natix's blockchain-based mapping data with Grab's camera hardware and AI-supported mapmaking technology. The partnership aims to leverage Grab's expertise in crowdsourced mapping alongside Natix's unique DePIN model, which incentivizes users for contributing decentralized data input.
As part of this collaboration, Natix is set to launch VX360, a device built on Grab's hardware platform, enabling Tesla drivers to collect and share 360° vehicle imagery. This initiative is expected to enhance map freshness and provide essential datasets for autonomous driving and physical AI applications. GrabMaps, Grab's mapping service, highlighted the partnership's potential to deliver real-time, high-fidelity map updates globally. Additionally, GrabMaps has engaged with other partners like Loqate, Bing Maps, and Mappls to further its hyperlocal location map-making technology.
Natix emphasizes that traditional centralized mapping methods are often inefficient and costly, with limited coverage and update frequency. To address these challenges, Natix has developed an on-street camera network that allows drivers worldwide to monetize their driving data, contributing to the next generation of maps. Tesla drivers, in particular, can earn rewards for providing 360° imagery, which will be utilized for improved mapping solutions and to power physical AI. Natix is also developing AI pipelines to extract data related to map events such as accidents, roadwork, and traffic signs, with plans to incorporate Grab's advanced AI capabilities.
Grab's partnership with Natix marks another step in its expanding involvement with blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies. In March 2024, Grab collaborated with the payments firm Triple-A to enable cryptocurrency payments for its services, including Bitcoin, Ether, and USDC stablecoin. Grab's initiatives are supported by SoftBank, a Japanese multinational investment holding company known for its positive stance on cryptocurrency and AI. This development follows Grab's recent financial report, which revealed a $773 million revenue in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting an 18% increase compared to the previous year.
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