Google Earth, launched in 2005, transformed digital mapping by allowing users to explore any location on the planet. To mark its 20th anniversary, Google is introducing new features including historic Street View integration and AI-driven insights for pro users.
Originally a desktop application downloaded over 100 million times in its first week, Google Earth is now accessible via the web, mobile apps, and the Google Earth Pro desktop client. The anniversary update brings a “time travel” interface that lets users view historical Street View images from numerous locations.
This feature, inspired by a social media trend of sharing historical images on Google Maps, offers a nostalgic look back at different places over time. In addition, Google is highlighting its 3D timelapse animations, which use satellite imagery to visualize changes in landscapes from a bird’s-eye perspective—a feature first introduced in 2021.
These additions celebrate two decades of Google Earth’s evolution while incorporating modern technology like AI to enhance user experience.