Major performance improvements for large maps and vectors
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been rolling out a major upgrade to how Birdi handles vectors, map layers, and large-scale projects.
In simple terms: maps are now significantly faster, smoother, and more stable, especially when working with large imagery datasets, dense vector layers, and complex projects.
Here’s what’s improved:
Improved vector performance
Vectors are now processed through a dedicated high-performance vector service instead of loading entire files directly into the browser.
What this means:
- Upload vector files up to 500MB (with support for even larger datasets planned)
- Work with more complex datasets more reliably
- Reduced lag when navigating large maps
- Fewer browser memory crashes caused by oversized vector files
Previously, very large vector datasets could sometimes lead to:
- Slow map loading
- Freezing during interaction
- Browser memory crashes or “Aw, Snap” errors
These issues should now be resolved for both new and migrated vectors.
Existing vectors have been migrated
All existing vectors in Birdi 2.0 maps have now been migrated to the new tiled architecture.
This means existing projects should also benefit from:
- Better overall responsiveness
- Reduced out-of-memory crashes
- Smoother navigation and interaction on large maps
Faster interactions across large maps
We also rebuilt key parts of the map rendering engine to improve responsiveness when working with large, complex projects.
Some of the biggest improvements include:
- Faster clicking and selection on dense maps
- Smoother layer visibility updates
- Near-instant folder expand/collapse behaviour
- Better performance when working with thousands of assets or layers
- Less freezing during heavy interaction
Real-world speed improvements
In practice, this means:
- Faster clicking and selection on dense maps
- Smoother layer visibility changes
- Near-instant folder expand/collapse behavior
- Better performance when working with thousands of assets or layers
- Less freezing during heavy map interaction
Improved platform stability
We’ve also addressed several backend performance and memory issues affecting:
- Large 360° image downloads
- Dashboard responsiveness
- Intermittent API slowdowns and outages
These updates should now result in:
- Faster dashboard load times
- More reliable downloads for large datasets
- Improved platform stability during heavy workloads
Why this matters
These upgrades are part of our ongoing focus on making geospatial data easier to work with at scale.
Whether you’re managing:
- Large inspection programs
- Dense utility networks
- Complex infrastructure datasets
- High-volume imagery and vectors
… Birdi should now feel noticeably faster, smoother, and more reliable across day-to-day workflows.