Google Maps just got a colorful, Redesigned
Google Maps is being redesigned to make it easier to distinguish between natural features in the environment, whether they’re mountainous ice caps, deserts, beaches, or dense forests. Google says the new maps will be available in the 220 countries and territories currently supported by Google Maps, “from the biggest metropolitan areas to small, rural towns.” Google says that street maps are also getting more detailed in select cities.
Google says it used satellite imagery as the basis for its redesigned maps and that this has had a “new color-mapping algorithmic technique” applied to it. The end result does a much better job of showing off the differences between natural features, such as between snowy peaks and dense forests or green fields and sandy beaches. The comparison shots below give an idea of what the new color-mapping technique is capable of.
The result is a “more comprehensive, vibrant map of an area at global scale.” Lakes rivers and oceans are blue, beaches and deserts are tan, and lavish locations are green.
According to Google, you’ll see an enhancement whether you’re taking a look at big city or a little rural town.
“Soon”, we’ll have the ability to see more precise maps of streets, walkways, and pedestrian islands to a more precise scale. Google prepares to start presenting more detailed street maps of London, New York, and San Francisco “in the coming weeks” with intent to broaden to more cities gradually.
