Google announced today on its Lat Long Blog the introduction of a new feature called “Earth View” on its online Maps service. The feature is the of a long overdue integration of Google Earth and Google Maps. Earth View requires users to either install the Google Earth application on their computers or download the Google Earth Plugin for their browser, which is available for most Windows and Mac browsers.
The new Earth View allows users to enjoy all of the 3D and high resolution goodness that the Google Earth application offers. Unlike Satellite View, Google Earth — which has been downloaded more than 600 million times — allows users to see mountains, buildings, landmarks, and landscapes in great 360-degree detail. Additionally, users can explore the depths of the oceans.
For those of you not familiar with Google Earth, Google has put together a little tour featuring 36 of the most famous places and landmarks in the world including the Sydney Opera House, Taj Mahal, and the Table Mountain in South Africa. Best of all, you can easily switch back to the Maps View for directions.
Check out a video overview of the new Earth View feature on Google Maps after the break.