Google has announced an exciting new scheme that allows organizations to now use the Google Street View Trekker Camera on a loan basis.
The Google Street View Trekker Camera pilot program allows third parties to borrow Google’s Trekker equipment and take it to places around the world.
Google explains that if you represent an organization such as a tourism board, non-profit, government agency, university, or research group and would like to take photos with the Trekker for future inclusion on Google Maps, Google will lend you their Google Street View Trekker Camera. This innovative camera can be worn as a backpack, allowing users to capture 360-degree images of their surroundings, even in the most remote or difficult-to-access locations.
How the Program Works
All you need to do is tell Google more about your proposed locations and upcoming trips, and they will then get back to you if and when there’s an opportunity to loan the Google Street View Trekker Camera. This initiative is part of Google’s broader effort to map the world and make it accessible to everyone. By involving third parties, Google can cover more ground and capture a wider variety of locations, from bustling city streets to serene nature trails.
The application process is straightforward. Interested organizations need to provide detailed information about their planned expeditions, including the specific locations they intend to photograph and the potential benefits of adding these images to Google Maps. Google reviews these applications and selects the most promising projects to support.
“Join us as we travel around the globe bringing amazing imagery and Views for you to explore. Find out how you can use the Street View Trekker to bring these Views to places and trails that you want the world to see. Apply your organization today.”
Benefits and Impact
The benefits of this program are manifold. For tourism boards, it offers a unique way to promote destinations by providing potential visitors with immersive, virtual tours. Non-profits and environmental organizations can use the Trekker to document and raise awareness about conservation areas, endangered habitats, and other critical sites. Universities and research groups can leverage the technology for educational purposes, creating virtual field trips and enhancing their research capabilities.
Moreover, the imagery captured by the Trekker can be invaluable for urban planning and development. Government agencies can use the detailed, up-to-date images to monitor infrastructure, plan new projects, and ensure public safety. The data collected can also aid in disaster response and recovery efforts, providing a clear picture of affected areas.
The Google Street View Trekker Camera has already been used in various fascinating projects. For example, it has captured the rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon, the vibrant streets of Venice, and the dense jungles of the Amazon. These images not only enrich Google Maps but also provide a valuable resource for people who may never have the opportunity to visit these places in person.
By democratizing access to the Trekker Camera, Google is empowering organizations to contribute to a global project that benefits everyone. Whether it’s showcasing a hidden gem in a remote corner of the world or providing critical data for scientific research, the possibilities are endless.
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