Google to Enhance Maps with Improved 3D Experience

Google Maps Receives Significant Updates, Including an Enhanced 3D Layer

Google has unveiled a series of substantial updates for Google Maps today. These enhancements span from integrating Live View augmented reality directions for indoor navigation to incorporating weather information directly into the maps. However, the most anticipated development – though currently lacking a firm release date – is the planned introduction of a significantly improved 3D layer for Google Maps.

Building a Detailed 3D World Model

Leveraging photogrammetry, the same technique powering the realism of Microsoft’s Flight Simulator, Google is constructing a comprehensive model of the world for its Maps service.

Dane Glasgow, Google’s VP for Geo Product Experience, explained in a pre-announcement press briefing that the company aims to refine its technology. This will allow for the fusion of billions of aerial, Street View, and satellite images. The goal is to transition from a conventional 2D map to a more precise 3D model than previously achievable, and to do so with increased speed and detail.

Image Credits: Google

Previewing 3D Routes and Enhanced Data Visualization

The practical application of this 3D layer remains to be fully realized. However, Glasgow demonstrated a new 3D route preview. This preview overlays typical mapping data onto the detailed 3D map.

This technology will also enable Google to identify and interpret finer details, such as traffic signals and building addresses. Consequently, this will lead to more accurate and reliable navigation instructions.

“We anticipate that the 3D imagery will facilitate the visualization of a wealth of new information and data,” Glasgow stated. “This includes valuable insights like traffic conditions, accident reports, transit delays, and crowd levels – the possibilities are extensive.”

Image Credits: Google

Immediate Updates: Indoor Live View and Environmental Data

In the near term, Google is rolling out several new features over the coming months. The most prominent of these is Indoor Live View.

Currently, Google’s AR Live View walking directions function exclusively outdoors. However, advancements in the company’s location recognition technology – even in areas with weak GPS signals – now enable indoor functionality. This feature is currently available in select U.S. malls in cities like Chicago, Long Island, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, San Jose and Seattle. It will soon expand to airports, malls, and transit stations in Tokyo and Zurich.

Google determines your location by comparing surrounding imagery to its database. This allows it to identify your floor and provide guidance to your destination, such as a gate at the Zurich airport.

New Layers for Weather and Air Quality

Google Maps will also incorporate layers for weather data (excluding radar) and air quality information. The weather layer will be globally accessible on both Android and iOS in the coming months. The air quality layer will initially launch in Australia, India, and the U.S.

Image Credits: Google

Eco-Friendly Routing and Low Emission Zone Support

Regarding air quality, Google Maps will introduce an eco-friendly routing option. This feature allows users to select driving routes that minimize CO2 emissions, and will be available on Android and iOS later this year.

Furthermore, the platform will now support low emission zones, common in many European cities. Support for these zones will launch in June in Germany, France, Spain, and the U.K. on both Android and iOS, with additional countries to follow.

Integrated Transportation Options

Google will also update its directions interface to display all available transportation modes and routing options. These will be prioritized based on user preferences and local trends, such as subway usage in New York City or bike-sharing in Portland.

Additional features include enhanced integration with Instacart and Albertsons for curbside grocery pickup.

These announcements from Google, as is typical, feature some exciting updates without confirmed launch dates. However, users can now access weather forecasts directly within Google Maps.