Microsoft intros Local Live with birds eye views

By Steve Malone

Posted on 9 Dec 2005 at 10:33

Microsoft is extending the functions of its new Live web based services initiative with a new locator and directions tool. Using imaging data from the Virtual Earth database, Windows Live Local will create an online local search and mapping service that combines bird's-eye imagery with driving directions, Yellow Pages and other local search tools.

The idea is that by combining driving directions - 'turn right, go forward two miles' - with a map 'I should be seeing a large building and a park about now', it makes it easier for someone to find their way.

The service will not only include directly overhead data but will also offer a new 45-degree bird's-eye view of major U.S. cities such as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Seattle and Las Vegas which covers around a quarter of America's population. The 45 degree data has been captured using via low-flying airplanes and then integrated with road and satellite maps to simulate 360-degree panoramas that can be viewed from four compass directions.

A lot of the time you just get the tops of houses but the extent of the views and some of the scenery is quite impressive.

Although the service is only available for US cities at present you can take a look at local.live.com.