When you think of a MAPS.ME token, a cryptocurrency tied to the offline mapping app MAPS.ME that rewarded users for map contributions. Also known as MAPS token, it was one of the first attempts to turn map editing into a crypto incentive system. Back in 2018, MAPS.ME launched this token to pay users for adding roads, businesses, and landmarks to their app. The idea was simple: if you improve the map, you earn tokens. But unlike most crypto projects, this one had a real-world use case — not just speculation.
The MAPS.ME app, a popular offline navigation tool used by travelers and hikers worldwide. Also known as MAPS.ME, it had over 100 million downloads before the token launch. was already trusted by millions. So why didn’t the token take off? Because earning it required effort — and most people didn’t want to edit maps just for crypto. Meanwhile, the crypto airdrop, a distribution method where tokens are given for free to users who meet certain criteria. Also known as token giveaway, it was offered to early adopters and contributors ended quietly. No big exchange listings. No marketing blitz. Just a token that slowly faded into obscurity.
Today, the MAPS.ME token still exists on a few decentralized exchanges, but trading volume is near zero. There’s no active development team, no new features, and no clear roadmap. It’s not a scam — it just didn’t solve a problem people cared enough to pay for. The real lesson? Even a useful app can’t force adoption if the incentive doesn’t match user behavior. You can’t pay people to care about maps if they’re already happy with Google Maps or Apple Maps.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories about crypto projects that tried to blend real-world utility with tokens — some succeeded, most didn’t. You’ll see how location-based crypto, tokenized maps, and airdrop campaigns played out in practice. No hype. No fluff. Just what happened, why it mattered, and what you can learn from it.
MAPS (MAPS) is a crypto token tied to the MAPS.ME mapping app, but it's rarely used. With low liquidity, no real utility, and a crashed price, it's more of a relic than a viable investment.
