Google Street View

Why in the News?

Key Points:

About

Google Street View

• Google Street View, allows its users to view panoramic and street-level 360-degree views of a particular place.
• The view of a location is captured using special cameras mounted on vehicles or on backpacks by data collectors.
• The images are stitched together to make a 360-degree view which users can swipe to get a detailed panoramic view of the area. 
• It is available on Android and iOS using the app or as a web view.
• With Street View, users are able to see exactly how a new destination looks like.

Google Street View Feature in India:

• Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Nashik, Vadodara, Ahmednagar, and Amritsar.

Prohibited Areas in India:

• Government properties, defence establishments and military areas.

Challenges:

• Privacy 

National Geospatial Policy, 2021 & Google Street View:

• The new geospatial policy allows local entities to do the data collection.
• Google has partnered with two Indian firms – mapping solutions provider Genesys International and Tech Mahindra.
• Local companies can collect data, and foreign firms can license the data from Indian entities to serve their customers in the country.

Benefits:

• Google Street View partnerships with local traffic authorities will help to improve road safety and reduce traffic congestion. 
• Google Maps will show speed limits data shared by the traffic authorities.
• It will help people navigate and explore new corners of the country and the world in a more visual and accurate way.