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What3words is a geocoding system and platform that divides the planet into a grid of 3 m squares, each with a unique three-word identifier. Launched in July 2013 and headquartered in London, it enables individuals, governments, and businesses to communicate exact locations using a simple, human-readable format.

The system supports offline usage, a public API, SDKs, and is integrated into emergency services, delivery logistics, navigation tools, and automotive platforms.

Company Snapshot

Industry

Geospatial, Location-based services, Mapping‑as‑a‑Service

Founded

2013

Headquarters

London, England, UK

Employees

150-200

Key Partners

Product

The system maps Earth into 57 trillion 3 m squares, each with a fixed three-word address. It functions offline via the app and online via API integrations used by navigation channels, logistics platforms, and emergency services.

Integrations range from voice assistants (Alexa Skill) to automotive infotainment and enterprise platforms. Developers embed the system using multilingual SDKs with support for 50+ languages.

what3words is used by rescue teams in remote terrain and by cities like Dallas to improve 911 response accuracy. NGOs deploy it where traditional addressing fails—festival sites, remote regions, informal settlements.

Team

Chris Sheldrick
co-founder & ceo
Jack Waley‑Cohen
co-founder & board director
Mohan Ganesalingam
co-founder & cto
Michael Dent
co-founder & director

Contact information

Email address

support@what3words.com


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