We have released iOS version of “DF Walker,” more user-friendly forest field survey app

DeepForest Technologies Co., Ltd. (CEO: Masanori Onishi) has released the iOS version of “DF Walker”, a field survey application available for smartphones and tablets.

 

About DF Walker

DF Walker is a smartphone and tablet application designed for forest field surveys, allowing users to display orthophotos and GeoJSON files on an interactive map.
By integrating with the device’s GPS, it streamlines the process of locating trees and other features in the field.
The app’s editing tools enable users to record feature information on-site, linking tree species, diameter at breast height (DBH), and other attributes to GIS data.
In addition, DF Walker includes standard GIS functionalities such as layer management and label display, making it versatile for a variety of tasks.

DeepForest Technologies released the Android version of DF Walker in August 2024.
Based on user feedback, the company has now launched the iOS version, offering more intuitive operation and enhanced usability.
This new tool is expected to help users conduct fieldwork more efficiently and effectively.

 

How to Use DF Walker

DF Walker allows users to load pre-prepared GIS data onto a smartphone or tablet via the internet.
First, upload the required data through DeepForest’s dedicated data management interface on their website.
Then, select the files from the DF Walker download menu to save them to your device.
DF Walker supports the following file formats:

・Raster images in GeoTIFF format (.tif) ¹

・GeoJSON files (.geojson) ²

Once downloaded, the data can be used offline.
Files can be added to the map as layers within the app.
To record new features, create a new file by entering a name and adding it to the app.
Multiple layers can be displayed simultaneously and overlaid, allowing users to configure the optimal combination of data depending on the survey needs.

*¹ GeoTIFF images are automatically converted to PNG format when imported into DF Walker.
*² Only WGS84 coordinate system is supported for GeoJSON files.

 

New Features in the iOS Version

・Support for GeoJSON Point and Line Formats

The iOS version of DF Walker now allows users to display and edit GeoJSON data in point and line formats.
This removes the previous limitation of the Android version, which only supported polygon formats, enabling more flexible data management.

Point data can be easily created with a simple tap, eliminating the need for precise polygon drawing with a stylus.
Support for line data allows users to manage features such as forest trails or boundary lines, expanding the range of information that can be recorded.
With these enhancements, DF Walker now allows users to view and edit a wide variety of map data entirely within the app.

 

In the iOS version, the screen layout has been redesigned to allow users to manage layers while viewing the map.
On iPads in particular, the layer menu can remain visible during editing, improving workflow efficiency.
This makes it easy to switch between orthophotos and CHM (Canopy Height Model) layers, as well as to smoothly toggle the visibility of multiple features.

 

Integration with DF Scanner

DeepForest Technologies offers a solution combining DF Walker with its forest analysis software, DF Scanner.
By importing analysis results from DF Scanner into DF Walker, users can efficiently identify valuable tree species and conduct surveys of dead or damaged trees caused by pests or diseases.
Conversely, field data recorded in DF Walker can be used to train DF Scanner’s AI models, improving the accuracy of species identification and size estimation, and enabling more advanced forest analysis.

While DF Walker can be used as a standalone application, combining it with DF Scanner expands its range of applications and enhances its utility for forest management.

Additional Information

    • DF Walker is available for free on both iOS and Android.

    • Registration for a DF Account (free) is required.

    • The information above is current as of February 2025. Features and specifications for both iOS and Android versions may change in future updates.

 

App Store

Android version : Google Play

DF WebService (Sign up for DF Account)

https://www.df-webservice.com/

 

For inquiries or feedback regarding this application, please feel free to contact us using the form below.

contact form (https://deepforest-tech.co.jp/contact/)