Interactive World Maps and 3D Maps

Long gone are the days of foldout, glove compartment maps and massive street directories. Technology has provided modern drivers with Internet maps and services that calculate and personalize any directions or maps you map need.
 
Along with directions, modern commuters can also use the Internet to get 3D maps and interactive world maps.
 

Features of 3D Maps and Interactive Maps

Unlike conventional flat maps that display nothing more then streets and important landmarks, 3D maps enable users to view buildings in all three dimensions. With a 3D map, you can tilt and rotate the image to see it from all perspectives. Many of these images have added textures, shadowed details and very realistic viewpoints.
 
Other interesting features of interactive maps include:
  • Landscaping features, such as trees and parks, give a more realistic rendition of a city than any two-dimensional map can.

  • Street-level photos enable users to "walk" through the city or experience it virtually via detailed views.

  • Traffic and driving directions, including landmarks and specific buildings, can be viewed and printed from sites featuring interactive maps.
Another type of map that can be useful is an interactive weather map. These maps show satellite images of weather conditions in different locations, allowing users to preview weather forecasts for upcoming days.

Places That Can Be Seen on 3D Maps

Currently, 3D maps have only been generated for specific countries and cities and are not available for the whole world. Most large U.S cities, along with several cities in the United Kingdom, France and Canada, are detailed in 3D interactive maps. Many culturally iconic places around the world have also been mapped in 3D, including Rome's Coliseum, Venice's Canals and Paris' Eiffel Tower.
 
The depth and features of available maps vary from city to city, with some cities not fully interactive and others having street-level features and terrain detail during different times of day. Depending on the city, not all map functions map be available.
 
More cities are being mapped almost daily, with extra features being to existing on an ongoing basis. It won't be long before the whole world will be mapped in 3D.

Where to Find Interactive World Maps

Interactive world maps can be found online by simply searching with the terms "3D world map" or "interactive world maps." Some of the most popular sites for interactive maps are:
  • Google Earth
  • Microsoft's Live Search Maps
  • Microsoft Virtual Earth.
Keep in mind that browser compatibility can be problematic in accessing and displaying 3D maps. Many programs require plug-ins, service updates or the latest version of a program to properly function.
 
Resources
 
Google (2007). Explore, Search and Discover. Retrieved on March 25, 2008, from the Google Web site.
 
Microsoft (2008). Live Search Maps. Retrieved on March, 25, 2008, from the Live Web site.
 
Microsoft Corporation (2007). Microsoft Virtual Earth. Retrieved on March, 25, 2008, from the Microsoft Web site.