Early Life and Education

John Hanke was born on September 11, 1967, in San Francisco, California. He grew up with a passion for technology and computers, which led him to pursue a degree in engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. After graduating, Hanke went on to earn a master's degree in business administration from the University of California, Berkeley.

Career Breakthrough

In 2001, Hanke co-founded Keyhole Inc., a company that specialized in geospatial data visualization. The company's software caught the attention of Google, which acquired Keyhole Inc. in 2004. This acquisition led to the development of Google Earth, a groundbreaking mapping tool that revolutionized how people interacted with geographic information.

Pokémon GO and Niantic

After leaving Google in 2010, Hanke founded Niantic Inc., a software development company focused on creating location-based augmented reality games. In 2016, Niantic partnered with The Pokémon Company and Nintendo to develop Pokémon GO, a mobile game that became a global phenomenon. The game generated over $1 billion in revenue within its first year of release.

Net Worth and Achievements

As of 2024, John Hanke's net worth is estimated to be around $300 million. His success as a tech entrepreneur has earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of Time magazine's 100 most influential people in the world in 2016.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Outside of his work in the tech industry, Hanke is known for his philanthropic efforts. He has donated millions of dollars to various causes, including environmental conservation and education initiatives. He also serves on the board of several nonprofit organizations dedicated to promoting STEM education for underserved communities.

Conclusion

John Hanke's journey from co-founding Keyhole Inc. to leading Niantic Inc. has solidified his reputation as a visionary tech entrepreneur. His innovative approach to blending technology with real-world experiences has reshaped the gaming industry and inspired countless others to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology. With his continued success and dedication to making a positive impact on society, John Hanke remains a prominent figure in the tech world for years to come.