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Spexi

Drone Data Powers Physical AI Push

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Vancouver-based Spexi Geospatial has partnered with Niantic Spatial to convert drone imagery into large-scale 3D intelligence for physical AI. The collaboration gives Spexi customers access to Niantic’s reconstruction technology, producing high-fidelity 3D models through the Spexi World platform. Spexi will also serve as a preferred drone imagery provider for training Niantic’s real-world foundation models.

The partnership combines Spexi’s aerial data network with Niantic’s expertise in spatial computing, supporting applications in simulation, mapping, and AI training. Executives said the deal advances the use of real-world spatial data for intelligent systems.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.com.

Spexi Partners with SkyWatch to Expand Drone Imagery Access

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Vancouver-based Spexi has partnered with Kitchener’s SkyWatch to integrate its ultra-high-resolution drone imagery into the SkyWatch Content Store. The collaboration combines satellite, aerial, and drone data through a single platform, allowing users to browse, purchase, and integrate imagery for diverse applications.

Spexi CEO Bill Lakeland said the partnership extends the company’s mission to deliver accessible, high-resolution data that supports critical decisions across industries. Founded in 2017, Spexi has raised over US$20 million, while SkyWatch, established in 2014, continues expanding its geospatial data aggregation platform to simplify global access to Earth observation imagery.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Spexi Elevates Canada’s Aerial Imaging Game

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Faced with aging infrastructure and climate risk, Canada’s demand for fast, accurate geospatial data is growing. Vancouver-based Spexi, led by imaging veteran Bill Lakeland, is meeting the challenge. The firm operates the world’s largest drone imaging network, capturing real-time aerial data for emergency planning, AI, and smart cities.

With a decentralized pilot network and a platform built for speed, Spexi outpaces satellites and aircraft in delivering timely insights. Municipalities, insurers, and researchers increasingly rely on its data to mitigate risks. Lakeland believes Canada’s regulatory edge and AI expertise position it to lead globally.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.

Spexi Secures $11M Series A for Drone Imaging Network

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Vancouver-based Spexi has closed a US$11 million Series A funding round led by Blockchange Ventures to scale its drone-based imaging network. Spexi aims to replace traditional satellite and airplane imagery with ultra-high-resolution drone data, providing near real-time updates for emergency response, infrastructure inspections, and flood monitoring.

The company boasts 900 times the detail of satellites while maintaining near-zero emissions. CEO Bill Lakeland emphasized Spexi’s role in supporting critical services and advancing AI-powered applications globally. Over 50,000 drone missions across Spexi’s network have created the largest standardized high-resolution imagery base layer. Spexi’s blockchain-powered “Fly to Earn” system ensures data integrity.

Want to know more? Check out the source code on Techcouver.