Google Maps has an inclusion of yet another update, which would give a better idea to the users of what their upcoming travel route will have in store for them. The feature is being called the “helicopter view”. It is even capable of giving a 3D view of a user’s upcoming road trip. Google’s LatLong blog had detailed cleared that the helicopter view/3D route is basically the aerial view of a route, which is selected by the users when they query into Google Maps for directions.
Looking at this feature from the point of view of those travelers who prefer the scenic route over highway driving, it is an appreciable option. In addition to that, the users will even be able to know how scenic their selected path of travel really is, with the 3D view.
The image posted below, is of an area which shows Highway 1 in California. Noting the view of the route, it seems that it would enhance a traveler’s travel experience visually rich. One can say that the service is efficient and only lacks the ability to see these routes in real-time. That would be an ask too big to be thought of at this time. With this feature, one can even do a little bit of traffic scouting , which would allow the users to pick the path of least resistance.
Talking about others, who would be benefited from this aerial view of the trip, a user intending to see the country from a non-highway point of view would even have their wish fulfilled. To detail the feature exactly, the blog post, LatLong had the following details noted:
To preview your own route, it is as simple as clicking on a button. Start by entering your starting point, destination, and mode of transport like any directions; in this case, driving directions from ‘Carmel CA to Big Sur CA.’ Then, just click on the “3D” play button. The map will switch to Earth view and automatically start flying you along your recommended route. You can pause the flight at any time by clicking anywhere in the 3D view or on the pause button in the lower left. While the flight is paused, you can explore the surrounding area in 3D by clicking and dragging the map.
However, the activeness of this feature is not available for each and every location. For instance, there is a link given for driving directions to Big Sur. When a user clicks on the link for the location, there is no provision for the “3D” button is not available. This non-availability might be for a few users only, but the problem still was a hassle.
Updates from Google has never been out for each and every user from the word ‘go’, and this feature is no exception. Many users who might be eager to get their hands on to this feature, might be disappointed with the limitation they could face as to not being able to see the new feature in action.