Most users of Google Maps are likely familiar with Street View as it’s been a feature baked into Maps for quite some time. Aside from being a cool function that allows you to see places you might be looking for on the map, it can also help users get an idea of the layout around the address so they know what the surrounding area looks like. This was also in a way the first introduction to what photo spheres would become later as you could use Street View to see the area in 360 degrees as if you were standing there. In the latest update to this feature that was previously part of Maps, Street View becomes it’s own standalone app, replacing the Street View from Google Maps app.
We first about this back in June when Google stated a dedicated Street View app would be coming in August, and although it’s a bit later than expected better late than never right? After this update to Street View users will be able to see the app in their app drawer with a brand new icon sporting Google’s new logo, and will be able to explore new places within the app in full 360 degree view. Google has things split up into multiple different categories including an “explore” section, collections, profile, and private tab. The collections is where you’ll find actual collections of street view images that have been taken by the Google Maps team giving you full view of tons of different places and landmarks around the globe.
The app also allows you to see photo spheres that have been uploaded and contributed to the app and can be found under the explore section. You’ll find some photo spheres here from the Maps team, but plenty from other users as well, and you can also contribute your own photo spheres for others to view and share. If you slide on over to your profile tab this is where you’ll find any of the photo spheres that you have uploaded, so if you want to show your friends or family you can find them all in one place. The app update should be hitting devices today so look out for it if you’re looking forward to publishing your own photo spheres. The app will also be live on both Android and iOS so you’ll be able to check it out even if you don’t use an Android device.
