Google Maps to Launch Immersive View

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

See recent posts by Caroline Morse Teel

If navigating through a new city stresses you out, an upcoming update to Google Maps could be a lifesaver on your next trip.

Google just unveiled Immersive View for routes, a new feature within Maps that will help you plan ahead and know exactly what to expect on your trip.

Immersive View utilizes Street View and aerial images to create a “multidimensional experience” where you can preview important aspects of your route, including bike lanes, sidewalks, intersections, and parking.

Example of Google Maps new immersive view — Google

Use the time slider to see how weather and air quality will change along the route depending on the time of day, helping you decide if it’s better to walk or drive. Immersive View will use AI and historical driving data to show how traffic is expected to look along your route, so you’ll know how much congestion to expect along the way.

“Imagine if you could see your whole trip in advance,” said Google CEO Sundar Pichai. “With Immersive View for Routes, now you can, whether you’re walking, cycling, or driving.”

Google will launch Immersive View in 15 cities to start: Amsterdam, Berlin, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Paris, Seattle, San Francisco, San Jose, Tokyo, and Venice.

Expect to see Immersive View within Google Maps in a few months. The new technology will focus on driving, cycling, and walking, and will not work for public transportation (yet).

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