Google’s new geospatial products and how it benefits user experience

Original article: Google I/O Preview: Introducing new 3D imagery, map customization, and routing products

Google recently announced several new geospatial routing products for Google Maps. The new geospatial products and capabilities announced by Google at Google I/O 2021 are primarily focused on enhancing the visual and contextual digital experiences for users of maps and location-based services. While these updates may not have a direct impact on search engine optimization (SEO), they could potentially affect the user experience and behavior, which in turn could indirectly impact SEO.

For instance, the immersive experiences enabled by Aerial View API and Photorealistic 3D Tiles could lead to increased engagement and time spent on location-based websites or apps, which could potentially improve their search engine rankings. Similarly, the new data-driven styling and advanced markers capabilities for maps customization could enhance the visual appeal and usability of location-based pages, thereby improving the overall user experience and potentially impacting SEO.

That said, the impact of these new products and capabilities on SEO is likely to be indirect and dependent on a number of factors, including the type of website or app, the user base, and the specific use cases. Ultimately, the best approach for SEO is to focus on providing high-quality, relevant content and ensuring that the website or app is technically optimized for search engine crawlers.

How can it improve the User Experience?

The new geo-spatial products such as Google Maps updates and integration of Google Earth with Google Maps can improve the user experience in several ways.

First, the new products can provide more accurate and detailed information about locations, which can help users find what they are looking for more easily. For example, Google Maps can show more accurate street-level views and real-time traffic updates, making it easier for users to plan their routes and avoid congestion.

Second, the integration of Google Earth with Google Maps can provide users with a more immersive experience, allowing them to explore locations in 3D and see detailed aerial views of landscapes and buildings. This can be particularly useful for people who are planning to visit a new location, as it can help them get a better sense of the area before they arrive.

Finally, the new geospatial products can also provide users with more personalized recommendations based on their location and search history. For example, Google Maps can suggest nearby restaurants or other points of interest based on a user’s current location and search history, making it easier for users to find what they are looking for.