Coronavirus has brought the value of mobile location data into public awareness in a very concrete way. Not too long ago, the idea was these data amounted to “tech-company surveillance,” a very negative sentiment. But use cases during this crisis have changed that perspective.

Here are a few recent applications and happenings in the space
Apple Mobility Trends

Apple has released a new Mobility Trends tool that shows the impact of shelter-in-place rules on user movements in multiple countries and selected cities. The data, which the company says is anonymous and aggregated, comes from Apple Maps navigation.

The tool allows users to see how the virus and corresponding lockdowns have impacted walking, driving and transit compared with a baseline measurement in January. The data is being updated daily.

For public health officials it’s potentially useful but for others, not as much. The data isn’t specific enough to offer much insight for digital marketers or brands.

Source: martechtoday.com