Google has announced that their Google Street View is now available in 50 different countries around the world. The 50th country to get the mapping service is Hungary, and Google is also expanding their coverage in Poland and Romania.
Google originally launched Street View back in 2007. At that time, the service was available in a total of five cities in the US, so things have expanded quite a bit over the last six years.
Today, we’ve reached 50 countries with the launch of Street View in Hungary and Lesotho and are significantly expanding our coverage in Poland and Romania, among other locations around the world. This is also the largest single update of Street View imagery we’ve ever pushed, including new and updated imagery for nearly 350,000 miles of roads across 14 countries.
The Evolution of Google Street View
Since its inception, Google Street View has revolutionized the way we explore the world. Initially, the service was limited to just five cities in the United States: San Francisco, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, and Denver. The project started with a few camera-equipped cars capturing panoramic views of streets, but it has since grown into a global phenomenon. Today, Street View cars, trikes, and even backpacks equipped with cameras traverse cities, rural areas, and even remote locations to bring users a comprehensive view of the world.
The expansion to 50 countries marks a significant milestone for Google Street View. Hungary and Lesotho are the latest additions, bringing unique cultural and geographical landscapes to the platform. This expansion is not just about adding new countries; it also involves updating and enhancing existing imagery. For instance, the recent update includes new and updated imagery for nearly 350,000 miles of roads across 14 countries, making it the largest single update in the service’s history.
Impact and Applications of Google Street View
Google Street View has numerous applications beyond simple navigation. It has become an invaluable tool for urban planning, real estate, tourism, and even education. Urban planners use Street View to assess infrastructure and plan new developments. Real estate agents and potential buyers can virtually tour neighborhoods and properties without leaving their homes. Tourists can preview destinations, plan their trips, and even explore landmarks in detail. Educational institutions use Street View to take students on virtual field trips to historical sites, museums, and natural wonders.
Moreover, Google Street View has played a crucial role in disaster response and recovery. After natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods, updated Street View imagery helps authorities assess damage and plan relief efforts. For example, after the 2011 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Google updated its Street View imagery to show the extent of the devastation and the progress of recovery efforts.
The service also supports local businesses by enhancing their online presence. Businesses can add Street View imagery to their Google My Business listings, allowing potential customers to take a virtual tour of their premises. This feature is particularly beneficial for restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, as it helps attract more customers by providing a realistic preview of what they can expect.
You can find out more information about Google Street View over at the Google Maps blog.
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