Google Maps introduces Panoramic Street View in India

Google Maps has finally launched its panoramic ‘Street View’ services in ten Indian cities. Google is collaborating with Tech Mahindra and Genesys for this service, using which users would be able to get a 360 degree view of streets around the world. The last time Google attempted to launch this series, it was unsuccessful due to regulatory restrictions. Google was denied permission at least twice in the past for its operation by the Indian government, citing security concerns. 

As per the company representatives, Google was finally able to meet the regulatory requirements due to the newly introduced geospatial policy in India. Under this policy, foreign map operators are allowed to provide panoramic imagery by licensing data from local partners. In this case, the data collection was done entirely by Tech Mahindra and Genesys. The service is expected to be made available in over 50 Indian cities by the end of 2022.

The Street View imagery would blur individuals’ faces and vehicle license plates to address privacy concerns. Google has also announced a partnership with India’s Central Pollution Control Board to offer air quality information over maps.

Home grown mapping company ‘MapMyIndia’ announced the public release of ‘MappIs RealView’, an indigenous 360-degree Panoramic Street View and 3D Metaverse Maps Service which powers Apple’s maps in India.