Thursday, April 26, 2012

Google Maps adds Photo Tours of World Landmarks - in 3D



Google Maps is an amazing resource. Google has just announced a new feature of Google Maps - Photo Tours. Photo Tours are 3D photo scenes of over 15,000 popular sites from around the world, including Yosemite, St. Mark's Basilica, Trevi Fountain, Buckingham Palace, the Anne Frank house and much more.

When you search for a location in Google Maps, the left panel will let you know if there is a photo tour available, as well as the info label for a landmark on a map.


Google used photos from Picasa and Panromio to create the 3D tours. The technology and result is amazing. Photos are attributed to whomever contributed them.


Please note that using photo tours requires Google Maps with WebGL so some computers won't be able to run it. 

This is a great way to visit places without leaving your home, and a great way to have students visit these places without the expense or hassle of actually traveling there.