Microsoft is launching its Streetside in Europe. Streetside is Microsoft’s rival for Google’s StreetView, and cars fitted with cameras have already started taking photos in London and will start taking photos in other UK cities next month.
The Streetside service from Microsoft has been available in the US for a while, and Microsoft is now expanding the service to cover Europe. Microsoft is looking to avoid any of the privacy problems that Google previously had with their StreetView.
Privacy Measures and Public Notification
Microsoft intends to combine the photos taken with Streetside with its location-based services, and Microsoft has said that they will be notifying the public about pictures being taken in their area in advance. This proactive approach aims to address privacy concerns that have plagued similar services in the past. For instance, Google faced significant backlash when it was revealed that their StreetView cars had inadvertently collected personal data from unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Learning from these mistakes, Microsoft is committed to transparency and public awareness.
In addition to public notifications, Microsoft is also implementing advanced data protection measures. These include automatic blurring of faces and license plates to ensure that individuals and their personal information are not easily identifiable. This is a crucial step in maintaining public trust and ensuring compliance with stringent European privacy laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Integration with Other Microsoft Services
Streetside is not just a standalone service; it is part of a broader strategy to enhance Microsoft’s suite of location-based services. By integrating Streetside imagery with Bing Maps, Microsoft aims to provide a more immersive and interactive experience for users. This integration will allow users to virtually explore neighborhoods, plan routes, and even scout out potential real estate properties from the comfort of their homes.
Moreover, businesses can benefit from Streetside by enhancing their online presence. For example, local businesses can use Streetside images to showcase their storefronts, making it easier for customers to find them. Real estate agents can offer virtual tours of properties, giving potential buyers a comprehensive view without needing to visit in person.
Another exciting application is in the field of augmented reality (AR). By combining Streetside imagery with AR technology, Microsoft could develop applications that overlay digital information onto the real world. This could be particularly useful for tourists, who could use their smartphones to access historical information, restaurant reviews, and other points of interest as they explore a new city.
Microsoft’s expansion of Streetside into Europe is a significant step in the company’s efforts to compete with Google in the realm of digital mapping and location-based services. By prioritizing privacy and integrating with other Microsoft services, Streetside aims to offer a robust and user-friendly alternative to Google’s StreetView.
Source BBC
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
