How does Niantic use player-scanned data for AI?

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Niantic uses player-scanned PokéStops to train its AI foundation models that learn to understand physical spaces.
Niantic introduced a PokéStop scanning feature in 2021 that let players opt in and upload footage from their devices in exchange for in-game rewards. Niantic said those scans were used to train its AI models to better understand physical spaces, and it later clarified that the PokéStop scans themselves were not handed over to a drone spatial-detection partner.
Players opt in and upload footage tied to real-world PokéStops
In 2021, Pokémon Go added a feature encouraging players to scan real-world locations called PokéStops for in-game rewards. Participation was optional and required players to actively opt in and upload footage captured on their devices.
The scans are used to train AI models on physical spaces
Niantic stated that the PokéStop scans helped train its AI models to better understand physical spaces. In other words, the uploaded scan data is treated as training material for models focused on interpreting real-world environments.
Niantic does not transfer the scans directly to the drone partner
Niantic confirmed a partnership with Vantor, a firm specialising in spatial detection software for drones used in settings where GPS signals are unavailable or compromised. Both companies said the Pokémon Go scans themselves were not handed over to Vantor; instead, the scans were used to train Niantic’s broader foundation models.
The purpose of scanning is linked to training, not direct sharing of raw scans
The distinction Niantic made is that the scans were used for model training while the raw scan content was not directly provided to the drone company. This frames how the player-generated data flows into AI development: it contributes to Niantic’s foundation models rather than being transferred as-is to the partner.

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How does Niantic use player-scanned data for AI?

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