Google Maps helps more than a billion people navigate the chaos of the real world and discover new places safely and quickly. At Google I/O, the search giant announced new ways the latest advancements in AI are transforming Google Maps. The most prominent addition to the navigation platform is the “Immersive Mode”.
Immersive Mode is the latest attempt by Google to use the billions of Street View and aerial images to extract more useful ways of navigation and exploration. The new mode promises to create a rich, digital model of the world. With the new immersive view, users will be able to experience what a neighborhood, landmark, restaurant, or popular venue is like — and even feel like they are right there before ever setting a foot inside.
Essentially, travelers or tourists will be able to discover local attractions as they realistically appear. Whether users are traveling somewhere new or scoping out hidden local gems, an immersive view will help them make an informed decision before even embarking on the journey.
The Immersive Mode is quite similar to the large cinematic scenes which pan over the city skyline, before zeroing on the location. Moreover, with Google Maps’ helpful information layered on top, users will be able to use the time slider to check out what the area looks like at different times of day and in various weather conditions, and see where the busy spots are.
Google claims the new Immersive Mode will help users get the “vibe of the place” before they even book a reservation or set foot inside the venue. The new mode should work equally well on any phone or large-screen device, claims Google. Immersive Mode will soon be available for select locations such as Los Angeles, London, New York, San Francisco, and Tokyo, but should gradually expand to include other cities.