MalaGIS

Sharing GIS Technologies, Resources and News.

Bing Maps Tile Request Format: Understanding the Quadkeys Algorithm

While recently researching how to load Bing Maps in ArcGIS Pro, the author conducted a simple packet capture of Bing Maps and discovered an unusual phenomenon. When requesting tile data, Bing Maps uses a request format that is noticeably different from common approaches. For example, services like Gaode Map typically pass xyz parameters, which correspond to x and y coordinates and the zoom level z. In contrast, Bing Maps passes a single integer parameter instead of three separate xyz values. How does this work? The image below shows a packet capture of Bing Maps requesting remote sensing imagery.

The image below shows a packet capture of Gaode Map requests.

Clearly, the request format of Bing Maps differs from that of Gaode Map. Bing Maps uses an integer parameter, while Gaode Map uses xyz parameters. So how is the Bing Maps request format generated?

more >>

How to Add Bing Maps as Basemap in ArcGIS Pro

In a previous article titled "ArcGIS Pro Basemap Service Access Issues in China and Solutions", we discussed the blocking of ArcGIS Pro services in China. Although services were later restored, they have been fully switched to Tianditu services, which offer limited basemap options—only six are available. Therefore, I have been continuously exploring and sharing more basemap services accessible within China. Today, I will introduce a method to add Bing Maps as a basemap in ArcGIS Pro. This approach is somewhat indirect and is provided for reference.

more >>

How the Renaming of the Gulf of Mexico Impacts the GIS Industry

Since U.S. President Donald Trump's executive order on his first day in office renamed the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America," the ripple effects have begun to spread. Recent reports indicate that major map service providers like Google Maps have already followed suit. But how does this change affect GIS professionals in China, and how should we respond? This article provides a brief analysis.

Updates from International Map Services

After reviewing services like Google Maps, Bing Maps, OpenStreetMap, and Cesium, here’s a summary of how each platform is handling the name change.

Google Maps

Google Maps was one of the first to react. Here's how it looks now:

more >>

Copyright © 2020-2025 MalaGIS Drive by Typecho & Lingonberry Sitemap

Back to top