When Google launched Google Street View in May 2007, it changed our view of the world by allowing us to explore most places on our planet from our computers. Integrated into Google Maps, this service offers 360-degree panoramic images that allow users to virtually walk the streets of more than 130 countries.
Over the past 17 years, the technology behind this service has continued to evolve. In addition to camera-equipped vehicles, Google has integrated bicycles, electric tricycles, and even hiking backpacks to access remote and sometimes difficult-to-access locations. This technological device has allowed Google to document vast areas of the world in images.
How do you know when Street View is coming to your area?
So although Google provides very little information, it is still possible to have a somewhat vague idea of the next passage of the cameras of Google Street View near you. So, if you want to know when Google teams are coming to your area, just do it like this:
- Appointment on the website of Google Street View. On this page, Google provides a dedicated section where users can check the next areas that will be mapped.
- Scroll down to the section Next destinations to map.
- From the drop-down menu, select your location. Choose your country and then your region.
- Then click Show districts (which likely correspond to our departments) to view the date pages during which Google teams will be browsing your area.
In the box below, Google will display a date range as well as details of the districts they will pass through.
While Google used to provide specific dates, it now offers broader time ranges. For example, they may indicate that they will be working in a given region from January to November, without specifying exact dates…
How to avoid appearing in Google Street View images?
It is important to note that due to its privacy policies, Google automatically blurs faces and car license plates in images. However, if your car or the facade of your house appears in Google Street View and you want to blur them, it is possible and it is quite simple.
- Open Google Maps in your browser and navigate to the view Street View by dragging the little yellow man icon to the desired street.
- Once in Street View, click on the three vertical dots near the address at the top left of the screen.
- Select option to report a problem the menu.
- A new window or tab will open. In this tab, start by adjusting the view so that theobject you want to hide is in the red rectangle.
- Specify what you want to blur: a face, a home, a car (license plate), etc.
- Fill in your e-mail address et validate a reCAPTCHA to say you are not a robot, then click Send.
Additional tips and tricks to get the most out of Google Maps
In addition to knowing when Street View will be in your area and how to protect your privacy, here are some additional tips to maximize your use of Google Maps:
- incognito mode (on mobile): As with web browsers, Google Maps also offers an incognito mode that prevents your browsing activity and searches from being recorded in your Google account.
- Download offline maps : If you plan to travel to an area without an internet connection, you can download area-specific maps to access them without requiring a connection.
- Share your real-time localization : You can share your real-time location with friends and family, which is useful for coordinating meetups or being tracked while traveling.
- Customize your card : Google Maps lets you customize your map by adding and editing places, giving you quick access to your favorite destinations.
- Using the “Your Places” feature : This feature allows you to save and organize your favorite places, such as restaurants, shops or tourist attractions, for easy access at any time.
