Uber Acquires Mapping Start Up deCarta

Uber is acquiring mapping and search startup deCarta for an unspecified amount, according to report by technology website Mashable.

Mashable, citing an Uber representative, added that the ride service will use deCarta's technology and talent through the deal which closes later this week.

DeCarta provides a software platform that focuses on location-based service technology, including mapping, routing and turn-by-turn navigation, the report added.

"A lot of the functionality that makes the Uber app so reliable, affordable and seamless is based on mapping technologies. With the acquisition of deCarta, we will continue to fine-tune our products and services that rely on maps-for example UberPOOL, the way we compute ETAs, and others-and make the Uber experience even better for our users," Uber spokesperson told Mashable.

Google, as one of the backers of Uber, is working on its own ride-sharing app which is expected to compete head on with Uber. Meanwhile Uber also recently announced a partnership with Carnegie Mellon to develop its own self-driving car technology.