If Eric Schmidt is to be believed, Google hasn't been focusing too heavily on bringing a Maps app to iOS 6. Instead, it's been working on improving its industry-leading mapping service. Google today announced that it has added underwater panoramic images to its Maps service.
Yes, you heard that right: You can now explore oceans using Google Maps.
Working closely with the Catlin Seaview Survey, a scientific group that uses specially designed technology to "record and reveal the world’s oceans and reefs like never before, in high-resolution, 360 degree panoramic vision," Google is adding images of the eco systems that exist beneath our planet's bodies of water.
The new underwater images work in conjunction with Google Street View. When you drag the little yellow figure to a part of a specific body of water, you'll submerge and get to see everything from sea turtles to manta rays to some coral reef.
To check out the available imagery, head to Google Maps's Street View gallery. In the meantime, peep the above video to see the new feature in action.
[via Google Blog]
