Google is making it easier for everyone to contribute to Street View. In a recent announcement, Google shared that an updated Street View app for Android phones is available. The app, which will likely have an iOS version in the near future, strings together individual photos that a user submits. This mimics the effect of a 360-degree photograph.
According to The Keyword, "images are captured using ARCore, the same augmented reality technology we use to produce experiences like Live View. After you record your images and publish them via the Street View app, we automatically rotate, position and create a series of connected photos. We then place those connected images in the right place on Google Maps, so your new Street View can be found in the exact location where it was taken for others to see and explore."
This is an exciting development for several reasons. Google is opening up the potential for people in every corner of the world to contribute to the platform, which will make it even more robust than it already is. As more and more people have access to Street View, it's likely that errors will be corrected and remote roads and paths will be added to the map. This is great news for anyone who uses Street View! In addition, Google is creating a trusted way for individuals to be contributors. In the past, there were tools and resources available, but they were highly specialized and not particularly accessible for an average individual. This update eliminates the need for expensive equipment or a Street View-equipped car.
The Advanced Online Insights Street View vehicle.
As professionals, we welcome more people to experience the power of Street View. We also recognize that working with experts like our team at Advanced Online Insights is a great way to control the quality, caliber, and accuracy of Street View imagery that impacts you or your business. Google will almost always prioritize its own Street View imagery and other high-quality photography that makes its platforms work the best. This includes companies like ours, who are Google-certified partners and are equipped with the right technology--namely, a 360-degree camera. Beyond those images, there are certain factors that will be at play in determining which photos show up on Street View, such as quality of the photo and recency.
Google's algorithms may change and adjust over time. For now, if you are looking for a simple solution to updating your private property's Street View data or need to add new information to Google Maps, we can help! Explore our recent article How to Update or Add Roads to Street View, or contact us to learn more about our stress-free and timely way to get your business, property, or complex on Google Street View. You can connect with us by emailing sales@advancedonlineinsights.com.
