Forum Discussion
Azure Map reference layer not rendering properly in power bi service (transparency & missing shape)
Hi, when I develop an azure map in power bi desktop, I can see the transparency of the map no problem (can see the cities behind the reference layer easily). We also have 4 maps layered on top of each other and use buttons to switch between the maps. When we do so in Power BI desktop, they all load correctly and you can see the transparency.
However, once published into Power BI service, the transparency goes away and becomes a solid colour. On top of that, when we use the buttons to switch between the maps, the detail of the geojson file disappears, you can no longer see the outlines of the shapes on the map. Posting photos below to show whats happening.
Power BI desktop map (transparent and shows shape detail)1. this is power bi desktop before I publish to Power BI service - the map is transparent and shows the shape/reference layer detail.
Power BI service map - once published the transparency goes away and it is now a solid colour. 2. Power BI service map - once published the transparency goes away and it is now a solid colour.
Power BI service - when switching between maps using buttons, now suddenly the shape/reference layer detail goes away. I can no longer see the borders. 3. Power BI service - when switching between maps using buttons, now suddenly the shape/reference layer detail goes away. I can no longer see the borders.
Can anyone assist with this? We are using a geojson file. Seems to be that the azure map is glitchy in Power BI Service only, and not desktop. Can someone please investigate? Thank you.
4 Replies
Hi Anonymous -This is a known issue with Azure Maps in Power BI Service, especially when layering multiple maps and using transparency settings. The differences in rendering between Power BI Desktop and Power BI Service can sometimes lead to unexpected behaviors, particularly with transparency and GeoJSON layers.
Make sure that transparency settings are set identically across all layers in the Azure Map visual, as any discrepancy can be exaggerated when rendering in Power BI Service.
Adjust the transparency slightly (e.g., from 50% to 49%) to test if this forces Power BI Service to render the layers correctly.
Power BI Service may struggle with complex GeoJSON files, especially when multiple layers are involved. Simplify the GeoJSON file if possible by:
Reducing the number of vertices in the shape outlines.
Using a simplified version of the file for each map layer.
As a workaround, you could try embedding a static GeoJSON file instead of dynamically loading it via Azure Maps layers. While this isn't ideal, it may help you preserve the transparency and boundary details in Power BI Service until a fix is applied.
Hope the above information helps.
rajendraongole1 I think I am moreso wondering if Microsoft is actually looking into fixing this or if it is just sitting there not being addressed. I can see other folks have started mentioning experiencing this bug at the beginning of September/late summer. It's a little frustrating to say the least given that all the microsoft map options don't seem to be great, and this is the only map that somewhat addresses our clients needs.
Hi - The issue with Azure Maps transparency settings in Power BI has indeed affected a number of users since late summer, particularly starting around September 2024. Transparency settings not rendering correctly when reports are published to the Power BI Service have been noted by other users in the Microsoft Power BI Community.share your ideas using below link:
Custom Visuals Ideas - Microsoft Fabric Community
Microsoft is aware of this issue, but specific updates or timelines for a fix have not been announced publicly. Some users have found limited success by adjusting legends and conditional formatting, though these workarounds may not fully resolve the transparency issues, especially when precise map overlays are necessary for client-facing visualizations. Currently, some community members are suggesting alternative mapping solutions like ArcGIS or Mapbox in cases where these visuals meet data requirements, but this may not be ideal due to additional licensing considerations​
Solved Thread:
Solved: Re: Azure Map Visuals Broken - Microsoft Fabric Community
Anonymous
Hi Anonymous ,
You can refer this -
I hope it will be helpful.
Thanks,
Sai Teja
