Google released a pretty huge update to their Google Earth app for iOS and Android devices today, featuring a completely revamped new interface (complete with a handy left side panel), improved directions and search, the ability to find and navigate directions in full 3D, and support for a number of additional countries.
From the official Google Maps blog:
Have you ever wanted to take a tour of Stonehenge or retrace the steps of Christopher Columbus? With the addition of Street View to Google Earth for mobile devices, you can explore many sites from street level right on your mobile device. And with the new streamlined interface, a simple click of the Earth logo in top left will give you quick access to more information through layers like Panoramio Photos and Wikipedia. Just in case you decide to visit these places yourself, Google Earth’s improved directions enable you to visualize step-by-step transit, walking and biking directions in full 3D.
Also with this release, we’re making Google Earth for mobile available in more than 100 countries worldwide, so you can start their virtual journey in Google Earth from almost anywhere on Earth. To unleash your inner explorer, check out your local Google Play store or iTunes to download the latest version of Earth for Android and iOS.
I can confirm that the visual update looks and feels GREAT on an iPad, at least in my opinion. It’s a very solid update that should come as quite welcome to long-time users of the app – and a great reason for those who haven’t tried the app to download it to their iOS device!
From the release notes:
What’s New in Version 7.1.1
* Google Maps Street View: With Street View, you can explore the world at street level.
* Improved directions/search: Updated directions let you can visualize transit, walk, bike and drive directions in 3D while update search result list will let you browse search results quickly.
* Improved interface: Easily browse and enable different layers through use of new left hand panel
The update is available now, as always, as a free download from the App Store.
- Google Earth 7.1.1 (free, App Store link).
