Google Maps is set to receive a significant upgrade to its Immersive View Mode, providing users with a more detailed 3D view of their planned routes. The new feature, announced at Google I/O 2023, will give users a clearer view of the neighbourhoods and areas they are travelling through, as well as information such as traffic, air quality, temperature, and more. This will be particularly useful for planning photography trips and journey plans.
The feature will be rolled out gradually to several cities this summer and eventually reach 15 cities worldwide, including Los Angeles, New York, London, and Tokyo, by the end of the year. Immersive View Mode combines Street View and aerial imagery to create digital recreations of cities, complete with real-time information.
This latest enhancement to Google Maps, alongside the Indoor Live View feature that displays AR arrows over a real-world view, will make it even more essential for tourists and people who get lost frequently. The upgrade will also make route planning more intuitive and user-friendly. However, Apple Maps is also becoming a strong rival, thanks to its Flyover view feature, and Google will need to keep up the pace to compete in the market.
The new Immersive View Mode for route planning is a significant improvement over Google Maps’ traditional overhead view, providing a real-world perspective of the journey. The feature will undoubtedly prove popular with users, who will be eager to try it out in their cities when it rolls out.
