Java Programmer

Google Earth 6 adds integrated Street View and 3D trees

Google Earth just got a whole lot more realistic with the release of Google Earth 6. The new version of Google's gorgeous "digital atlas" integrates Street View and adds 3D trees, making browsing Google Earth even closer to actually being there.

The trees have been added to Google Earth's existing 3D environment, while Street View has basically been dropped on top of it. You can activate Street View just as you would in Google Maps, by grabbing the little "pegman" icon and dropping him on the highlighted blue street you want to view. Arrow key and scroll-wheel navigation have also landed in Street View, making it easier for you to take a virtual walk around.

One less-flashy -- but still very interesting -- addition to Google Earth 6 is historical imagery. When you're viewing an area for which Google has historical images, you'll see a timeline which you can click on to jump back in time and look at previous shots of the area.