MapQuest Adds New Surveillance Camera Map Layer

The updated navigation tool allows users to identify the locations of automated license plate readers on their digital maps.

Updated on Oct. 19, 2026 in Cybersecurity

MapQuest Adds New Surveillance Camera Map Layer

Live Poll

Do you support the ability to view and track surveillance camera locations on your navigation app?

MapQuest has introduced a new free feature called Surveillance Layer that maps the locations of automated license plate readers and surveillance cameras. The tool displays these cameras as eye icons, allowing drivers to view details about equipment installed by manufacturers including Flock Safety, Motorola Solutions, and Genetec.

Why it matters

The feature was developed in direct response to user requests for increased visibility into surveillance infrastructure while navigating. By mapping these devices, the company aims to provide drivers with more comprehensive data regarding the technology tracking vehicle data along their routes.

The new tool utilizes data to map surveillance hardware that captures vehicle images, license plate numbers, vehicle type, color, GPS data, and timestamps. Users can access this information by tapping the Map Layers menu and toggling the Surveillance option.

The players

MapQuest

MapQuest is a web mapping service and subsidiary of System1 that provides online maps, directions, and navigation tools to millions of users.

Flock Safety

Flock Safety is a public safety technology company that specializes in automated license plate recognition cameras and vehicle tracking software.

Motorola Solutions

Motorola Solutions is a global provider of public safety and enterprise security products, including video security and analytics software.

Genetec

Genetec is a technology company that develops open-architecture software for physical security, including license plate recognition and video management.

The details

Drivers can interact with the system by clicking on the eye icons that now appear on their maps to reveal specific details about individual surveillance units. The integration covers monitoring equipment manufactured by Flock Safety, Motorola Solutions, and Genetec.

October 12, 2026: MapQuest officially launched the Surveillance Layer feature.

The Tech Race

This integration follows a growing consumer trend of demanding transparency regarding the automated license plate readers that operate across public roadways. By formalizing this data into a navigation layer, the company positions itself to capture user interest in security-conscious transit tools.

Users can now gain visibility into the surveillance systems capturing their vehicle data by simply toggling a setting in their navigation app. This provides drivers with more information about the security infrastructure they pass during their daily commutes.

The takeaway

The move represents a notable shift in navigation software as companies begin to prioritize user-requested transparency regarding public and private surveillance. Drivers can now make more informed decisions about their routes by identifying the locations of license plate readers in real time.