# what3words

> proprietary geocode system

**Wikidata**: [Q112478471](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q112478471)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/what3words

## Summary  
what3words is a proprietary geocode system that assigns a unique combination of three words to every 3-meter square on Earth. It enables precise location identification and communication without traditional addresses or coordinates.

## Key Facts  
- what3words was developed by What3words Ltd., a company based in London.  
- The system divides the world into a grid of 3m x 3m squares, each identified by a unique three-word combination.  
- It operates under a proprietary license; use is subject to terms defined by the developer.  
- The service is available in multiple languages, with word combinations generated algorithmically.  
- Used by logistics companies, emergency services, and automotive industries for navigation and delivery purposes.  
- The system is classified as proprietary software under SIC code 7372 ("Prepackaged Software").  
- Copyrighted content with structured data maintained via Wikidata and OpenStreetMap integration.  
- Alternate software listing exists on Alternativeto.net under ID "what3words".  

## FAQs  
### Q: How does what3words work?
A: The system splits the globe into a grid of 3x3 meter squares, assigning each one a unique sequence of three words. Users can share these combinations instead of GPS coordinates or street addresses.

### Q: Is what3words free to use?
A: While basic access is available at no cost, commercial usage requires licensing agreements due to its proprietary nature.

### Q: Can I use what3words offline?
A: Yes, the app supports offline functionality once downloaded, allowing users to find or share locations without internet connectivity.

## Why It Matters  
what3words solves a critical global issue—address ambiguity and lack of formal addressing systems in many parts of the world. By providing hyperlocal identifiers using simple three-word phrases, it enhances accuracy in logistics, emergency response, and navigation. Its adoption across sectors like e-commerce, ride-sharing, and autonomous vehicles demonstrates practical utility beyond traditional mapping tools. Furthermore, its multilingual support broadens accessibility, especially in regions where alphanumeric postal systems are limited or nonexistent.

## Notable For  
- First global addressing system to offer fixed-length, human-readable codes for all locations  
- Integration with major automotive platforms including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Ford  
- Support for over 50 languages with culturally relevant vocabulary sets  
- Adoption by national postal services such as those in Mongolia and Côte d'Ivoire  

## Body  
### System Overview  
what3words is a digital geolocation solution that encodes geographic coordinates into memorable three-word combinations. These combinations correspond to specific 3m x 3m areas globally, enabling accurate pinpointing of any spot on land or water.

### Technical Design  
- Grid resolution: 3 meters × 3 meters per square  
- Algorithm-based assignment ensures uniqueness and avoids offensive or misleading combinations  
- Language-specific word lists prevent cross-language confusion while maintaining consistency within linguistic boundaries  

### Licensing & Availability  
The platform functions under a proprietary model:
- Free tier allows public access through web and mobile apps  
- Commercial integrations require paid licenses governed by custom agreements  
- API access available for developers seeking embedded functionality  

### Industry Applications  
- Automotive: Integrated into vehicle infotainment systems for destination input  
- Logistics: Enhances last-mile delivery precision in urban and rural settings  
- Emergency Services: Facilitates faster dispatching in areas lacking clear address infrastructure  

### Data Sources & References  
- Image source: Wikimedia Commons (linked from Wikidata)  
- Documentation hosted on OpenStreetMap wiki as of February 25, 2022  
- Listed on Quora topic directory and Alternativeto.net for user comparison and discussion

## References

1. [what3words - OpenStreetMap Wiki](https://wiki.openstreetmap.org/wiki/What3words)
2. Quora