David Bridges
After a prolonged wait, Apple finally brought Apple Maps to the web in July, and while it offered basic functionalities like searching for locations, exploring the map, and obtaining directions, it lacked advanced features such as Look Around, which is Apple’s response to Google Maps’ Street View. This absence was noted by many users who sought a more immersive mapping experience with panoramic views to enhance their navigation. Fortunately, Apple has recently addressed this shortcoming, making significant strides to enhance the usability and functionality of its mapping service.
Now, Apple Maps beta includes the long-awaited Look Around feature, indicated by a small binoculars icon located at the bottom left corner of the map interface. By clicking this icon, users can access a 360-degree panoramic view of their surroundings, which can be expanded to fill the entire map area. This feature allows for a more interactive experience, as users can easily navigate through the Look Around view by clicking and dragging with their mouse. Additionally, users can zoom in and out using pinch gestures on their trackpads or double-tap anywhere on the screen to move the camera forward, providing a seamless exploration of locations.
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This is an expanded view of a street in New York City, showcasing the detailed imagery provided by Apple Maps’ Look Around feature.
Credit: Apple Maps
Apple’s Look Around feature differs from Google Maps’ Street View by requiring users to activate it first, then click on specific locations on the map to view their surroundings. While Google Maps offers a more freeform navigation option with its draggable yellow man icon, Apple Maps provides a more controlled experience, allowing users to explore in smaller increments. This precision can be particularly useful when searching for specific addresses or landmarks, enhancing the overall functionality of the mapping service.
It is important to note that Look Around is not universally available. Currently, this feature is accessible in select cities across the U.S., much of Europe, the UK, Japan, and Israel, among other locations. For a comprehensive list of where Look Around is available, users can refer to Apple’s official website, ensuring they can take full advantage of this innovative mapping tool wherever they travel.
Moreover, Apple Maps’ Look Around is compatible with popular web browsers such as Chrome, Edge, Firefox, and Safari, making it easy for users to explore their surroundings in a visually engaging manner. For those interested, the feature is readily available for use on the Apple Maps platform, allowing for a richer navigation experience than ever before.
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Daniel Mercer
