Google Introduces Google Earth VR: Experience the World Without Traveling

Ten years ago, Google launched a revolutionary tool called Google Earth that allowed people to see the wonders of the planet Earth without leaving their houses. From looking across the New York skyline to diving beneath the Atlantic Ocean and even exploring the outer galaxy, users could use their desktop or mobile devices to view practically any place on Earth.  

Now, with its release of Google Earth VR, Google makes it possible not just to see but also to “experience” remote places in the world as if you are actually there. On Wednesday, Nov.16, Google unveiled Google Earth VR in its corporate blog. Using virtual reality technologies, Google Earth VR provides deeply immersive experiences for people to explore destinations in exciting new ways. Imagine climbing to the top of the Swiss Alps or swinging between New York’s skyscrapers like Spiderman.

“Now, at 196.9 million square miles, we know the world is pretty big, so we’ve made it easy to find great places to visit. Earth VR comes with cinematic tours and hand-picked destinations that send you to the Amazon River, the Manhattan skyline, the Grand Canyon, the Swiss Alps, and more,” said Google in the announcement.

The launch of Google Earth VR means that travelers can now “test travel” a place before deciding whether to jump on an 18-hour flight. It is especially great news for people with mobility disadvantages, who can now “travel”around the world without spending a dime.  

Google Earth VR is currently available only on HTC Vive, which retails for $800. To learn more, go to: https://vr.google.com/earth/.