Google Earth Introduces Historical Street View Imagery

An image of the Vessel sculpture in Google Earth.
The Vessel sculpture in New York, now viewable with historical imagery in Google Earth.

Google Earth has unveiled a new feature that allows users to explore historical imagery from Street View. This update coincides with the tool’s 20th anniversary and provides an opportunity to observe how various locations have evolved over time.

Previously, Google Earth users could switch to Street View while viewing satellite imagery. However, this latest enhancement enables users to browse through images captured across different years, similar to the functionality available in Google Maps. Last year, Google also introduced Google launched the ability to view historical satellite and aerial imagery, which was initially exclusive to the Earth Pro desktop application.

Tree canopy coverage in Google Earth
Tree canopy coverage visualization in Google Earth.

In addition to the historical imagery feature, Google is set to roll out a new capability aimed at professional users, which will provide “AI-driven insights” about the planet. This feature will include valuable information regarding tree canopy coverage, enabling users to identify areas with significant shade and those that could benefit from cooling strategies. Furthermore, it will offer access to land surface temperatures, allowing professionals to analyze which parts of a city experience higher heat levels. These insights are expected to be available in the coming weeks.

This update marks a significant step forward for Google Earth, enhancing its utility for both casual users and professionals alike. By integrating historical imagery and advanced analytical tools, Google aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of environmental changes and urban development.

For more information on these features and updates, visit the official Google Earth page.