Google Street View is the latest service from the online search giant to get a dedicated app. Featuring 360-degree panoramas, which allow better views of both outdoor and interior spaces, the new Street View app is available now for Android and iOS devices.
New features
Google announced the launch of the new app in a blog post that went on to explain how some of the new features could be used by consumers. For the first time immersive 360-degree imagery is available, which literally adds more dimensions to the functionality of the service.
Whether checking out urban routes or in-country hiking trails, the amount of new detail available makes outdoor spaces more easily navigable. Although previously many may only have thought of Street View as a tool for exploring exteriors, the new panoramic functions mean building interiors will take on a greater role too.
Uploads
Another big development is an upload function that allows users to add to the Street view database. If a user finds a location that doesn’t yet have its own panorama view, they can upload their own pictures straight to Google Maps from the Street View app. The company hopes that the chance to upload and share user generated photo spheres (360-degree panoramas) will be a big part of the appeal of the new app.
SEO impact
Although website copywriting will always play a vital function in any SEO campaign, other forms of content are increasingly playing a larger role. With an Explore tab that allows users to browse galleries of Street View collections and content contributed by others, the interactive nature of the new app is sure to offer opportunities for marketers and add new possibilities to campaign strategies. Being able to search and explore any location and then view it from every point of view will take the whole idea of online mapping to a new level.
Spheres
The 360 viewing capability is a major part of the new app, so spherical cameras are likely to get a boost too.
The new Street View app can be used with models such as the Ricoh Theta S and NCTech iris360, allowing consumers to shoot, upload and share their own personal panoramas to the app. More likely in-phone cameras will be used to take advantage of the app, but either way it could be yet another game changing move from Google.
