Google Maps introduced Immersive View in 2022, which provides an interactive and realistic view of surroundings.
In 2023, Google expanded this feature to include routes, allowing users to experience their journey in a more immersive and interactive way.
Immersive View for Routes provides a 360-degree view of the route, including streets, landmarks, and buildings, making it easier for users to navigate through unfamiliar areas.
During the I/O 2023 keynote, Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, revealed that Google Maps offers 20 billion kilometres of directions every day.
What is Immersive View for Routes?
Google Maps' Immersive View for Routes is a new feature available on iOS and Android devices.
It allows users to preview their route with detailed information on traffic, intersections, weather, and more.
The feature merges computer vision and AI to create a digital representation of the world, providing a more immersive experience for users.
How Does it Work?
Google Maps' Immersive View for Routes provides a multidimensional experience when searching for directions.
It displays bike lanes, sidewalks, intersections, and parking spots along the journey, allowing users to view all necessary information at once.
The feature also allows users to preview weather conditions, traffic situations, and air quality through a time slider.
Aerial View API for Developers
Google has launched an Aerial View API for developers, allowing them to integrate bird's-eye video footage of a location into their apps and websites.
This feature can visually represent the area and is useful for businesses to showcase their location or for developers to create immersive games and experiences.