On March 20, 2025, we hosted a webinar to explore how developers and product teams are using Mapbox Navigation to build real-time, responsive, and tailored location experiences. The webinar focused on Mapbox Directions API, and highlighted how easy it is to get started with APIs to do more with maps. The webinar started with an overview of our Navigation product suite, including insights into how companies like DoorDash, Instacart, and Kraken Technologies are using Mapbox APIs to support high-performance navigation across a wide range of use cases.

Use case deep dives: From delivery to on-demand logistics

The discussion then moved into industry-specific use cases. In delivery and logistics, teams use Mapbox to power intelligent routing that responds to real-world traffic conditions, reducing fuel costs and maximizing the number of deliveries per shift. Mapbox customers in this space are using APIs like the Directions API and Map Matching API to support fleet dispatch and improve route planning accuracy.

In mobility, navigation must adapt to fast-changing ETAs, rider pick-up and drop-off points, and multi-stop trips. Whether building a rideshare platform or micromobility service, developers benefit from the ability to combine components like ETA calculations and real-time traffic updates. For consumer navigation apps, the focus shifts to creating seamless user experiences — whether for drivers looking for the fastest route, cyclists seeking the safest path, or pedestrians navigating cities on foot. The Mapbox Navigation SDK is at the heart of these apps, with support for voice-guided navigation, rerouting, and dynamic lane guidance.

How customers are building with Mapbox

To connect the dots between individual components and real-world outcomes, the session featured customer examples that brought the building blocks to life:

• DoorDash uses a combination of Directions API, Route Optimization, and ETA to support high-volume delivery routes and ensure drivers stay on schedule, even during peak hours.
• Instacart leverages Mapbox tools to power in-app navigation for shoppers and delivery partners, helping them move efficiently from store to doorstep.
• Kraken Technologies, a utility company with a large field service team was highlighted for its use of the Navigation SDK to support dynamic route updates for electric vehicles, integrating charging stops into the trip planning experience.

Built With Mapbox: When to Leave App

One highlight of the session was a live demo from Kieran McCann, who showcased a personal project built during airport downtime: the When to Leave web app. Designed to help travelers avoid missed flights, the app uses the Mapbox Directions API to calculate dynamic drive times based on live traffic, factoring in airport security wait times, boarding buffers, and whether you have TSA PreCheck. 

Kieran walked through the experience — from selecting a flight time to generating a personalized "leave-by" recommendation, complete with a calendar reminder and quick access to Uber. Built in just a few hours using AI tools and the Mapbox documentation, the app is a practical example of how easy it is to go from concept to prototype with the Directions API — even for those without a deep engineering background.

Built With Mapbox: OilTrails app

Craig Hewlett, founder and CEO of OilTrails, shared how his experience working long hours in the remote Canadian oil fields inspired him to build a navigation app designed specifically for oil and gas workers. Reflecting on moments of frustration — like getting lost in the middle of the night, out of cell service, relying on directions that didn’t add up — Craig set out to solve a problem he knew firsthand. 

He started by learning to code while still working in the field and launched a basic app that converted oil industry coordinates to GPS points, redirecting users to Google Maps. The idea struck a chord. Within weeks of release, OilTrails climbed to the top of the Canadian App Store's navigation category, proving just how widespread the need was for better navigation tools in this space.

As the app evolved, Craig turned to Mapbox when Apple began rejecting updates that relied on screenshots of third-party navigation interfaces. He needed a solution that could be fully integrated into the app, both functionally and visually. Mapbox stood out for its ease of implementation and flexible map design options. 

Over time, OilTrails adopted Mapbox not just for navigation, but for the full mapping experience — using the Navigation SDK for in-app, turn-by-turn directions and the Maps SDK to deliver high-quality, customizable maps with strong offline support. These features are essential for oil field workers operating in areas with poor connectivity, and the ability to cache maps and routes has become a key part of OilTrails’ reliability. 

Today, satellite imagery, route previews, and a clean, integrated UI help users find well sites across rugged terrain, whether they're driving through snow-covered backroads or navigating unmarked lease roads in the mountains.

Build with Mapbox Navigation product suite

Whether you're building tools for delivery fleets, outdoor enthusiasts, or specialized industries, the Mapbox Navigation product suite provides the building blocks to create reliable, responsive, and visually rich experiences. The stories shared during the webinar show how developers of all backgrounds are turning real-world problems into practical solutions with Mapbox.

If you're looking to build or improve a navigation experience, now is a great time to explore what's possible. Start with the Directions API playground or dive into the Navigation SDK to see how Mapbox can support you.