Tofu Maps

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Tofu Maps is a privacy-first, no-signup web application for creating and sharing custom digital maps. Technically, it operates as a browser-based geospatial tool leveraging Mapbox and OpenStreetMap APIs.
2. Core Value Proposition: It eliminates friction in personal map curation by enabling instant creation, password-protected sharing, and collaborative editing without mandatory accounts—prioritizing speed, simplicity, and data privacy.

Main Features

1. Zero-Signup Map Creation:
   • How it works: Users immediately start building maps by adding geocoordinates (e.g., 43.23263, 76.95367) or searching locations. Data persists locally via browser storage until shared.
   • Technology: Uses IndexedDB for client-side data storage and Mapbox GL JS for rendering.
2. Password-Protected Sharing:
   • How it works: Generates unique URLs with optional edit/view permissions. Password encryption occurs client-side before server storage.
   • Technology: Implements AES-256 encryption for shared maps and QR code generation via QRious.js.
3. Multi-Platform Place Export:
   • How it works: One-click exports open saved locations directly in 2GIS, Yandex Maps, Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Organic Maps.
   • Technology: Geocoordinate parsing with Turf.js and deep linking to third-party map services.
4. Collaborative Annotation:
   • How it works: Users add custom names, notes (✏️), and categories (🗂) to saved points. Edits sync in real-time for shared link holders.
   • Technology: Operational Transformation (OT) algorithms for conflict-free concurrent editing.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Account fatigue and privacy concerns in map curation tools (e.g., Google My Maps requiring sign-ins and data tracking).
2. Target Audience:
   • Travel bloggers creating shareable itineraries
   • Film scouts documenting shooting locations
   • Urban planners crowdsourcing local insights
   • Event organizers mapping venue logistics
3. Use Cases:
   • Securely sharing password-protected location lists for private events
   • Building ad-hoc city guides with embedded notes for restaurants or landmarks
   • Archiving historical site coordinates for academic research

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike competitors (e.g., Google My Maps), Tofu Maps requires zero personal data, offers client-side encryption, and enables instant sharing—bypassing account creation entirely.
2. Key Innovation: Browser-native storage combined with serverless sharing architecture reduces latency and eliminates server-side data exposure risks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Tofu Maps completely free?
   Yes, Tofu Maps offers unlimited map creation, sharing, and storage without fees or subscriptions.
2. How does password protection work for shared maps?
   Passwords encrypt map data locally before upload; servers store only encrypted blobs, ensuring no plaintext access.
3. Can I use Tofu Maps offline?
   Partially: Map editing works offline via browser storage, but sharing/exporting requires internet connectivity.
4. What happens if I clear my browser cache?
   Unshared maps are lost; always generate share links to back up data on Tofu Maps’ servers.
5. Does Tofu Maps sell location data?
   No, the platform adheres to strict privacy-by-design principles—no data mining, ads, or third-party tracking.