Look Around (Apple)

Look Around is a feature within Apple's Apple Maps application, introduced in the iOS 13 update in September 2019. It allows users to view high-resolution, 3D street-level imagery of certain cities and destinations, similar to Google Street View in Google Maps. Look Around is designed to provide users with a more immersive and detailed view of streets, landmarks, and locations around the world.

Functionality

Look Around utilizes a series of high-resolution images taken at street level to offer a 360-degree view of various locations. Users can navigate through these images by panning and zooming, allowing them to explore streets, landmarks, and other points of interest in supported cities. The feature is noted for its smooth, seamless transition between images, providing a fluid experience that closely mimics moving through the physical environment.

To access Look Around, users can search for a specific location or address in Apple Maps and, if the location is supported, an option to enter Look Around mode will appear. Once in Look Around, users can move along streets and intersections by tapping on the screen or clicking on visible road markers.

Coverage

Initially, Look Around was available in a limited number of cities in the United States, but Apple has gradually expanded its coverage to include additional cities and countries around the world. The expansion process involves Apple's custom vehicles equipped with 360-degree cameras driving through streets to collect imagery. This imagery is then processed and integrated into the Apple Maps application, allowing for the expansion of Look Around to new areas.

Privacy

Apple has emphasized privacy as a key aspect of Look Around. Faces and license plates within the imagery are blurred to protect individuals' privacy. This approach aligns with Apple's broader commitment to user privacy across its products and services.

Comparison with Google Street View

Look Around is often compared to Google Street View, a similar feature in Google Maps that was launched in 2007. While both services offer street-level imagery, Look Around is praised for its higher-resolution images and smoother navigation experience. However, Google Street View boasts a significantly larger coverage area, having been in development for a longer period.

Future Developments

Apple continues to invest in the expansion of Look Around, with plans to cover more cities and countries. The company is also exploring advancements in technology that could enhance the feature's functionality and user experience, such as augmented reality (AR) integration.

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