Google is developing a 3D Immersive View feature for Google Maps that will provide a bird’s-eye view of notable landmarks. The new feature is rolling out to mobile users on both Android and iOS platforms and includes 3D images of nearly 100 famous landmarks around the world.
3D Immersive View works with Google’s artificial intelligence algorithms, taking billions of Street View and Google satellite images and combining them to create a realistic 3D image. To date, Google has added 3D images for landmarks including San Francisco’s Alcatraz Island, London’s Big Ben, and New York’s Empire State Building.
To find aerial views, search for a popular landmark on Google Maps and visit the photos section. If Google has added a 3D immersive view of the landmark, it will be available in this section.
Google says 3D Immersive View is designed to help tourists by providing a bird’s-eye view of the area for reference without the image being too far away, like a satellite image.
In 3D, users can visualize the landmark in its natural environment and compare it more easily to what they see on the ground.
But for many, 3D Immersive View will offer a chance to do some immersive digital sightseeing where they don’t have the opportunity to travel but would still like to learn about a destination that’s on their bucket list.
Another feature being introduced to Google Maps is a bike navigation option that provides detailed route information, including traffic conditions, grades, road types, construction information and stairs. Cyclists will also be able to compare routes and see where the bottlenecks are to choose a faster route to their desired destination.
Finally, Google is adding a share notifications feature so users can advise others in their group when they arrive at a location. It’s very similar to Apple’s Find My Friends feature, where each person has to opt in to be followed and share their location. Sharing is time-sensitive and managed by email and app, so once the event is over, sharing can be disabled with a simple tap, as you no longer need to follow everyone else.
3D immersive view and bike navigation will be rolled out in various cities in the coming months, with more detailed 3D images and information added over time. Share notifications should be available now, with users having to opt in to enable the feature among those in the group sharing their locations.
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