maps that lie · 2007-04-19 21:15
Haven’t got much time to write about it, but I thought it worth flagging that Google have started displaying 3d models on their maps, in some US cities at least.
They work pretty well when zoomed out (seem flat).
As you zoom in, though, the weird projection means it’s hard to use the detail for navigation – especially height. It also seems to make the map harder to use – too much mapjunk. It’s a pity you can’t turn off the buildings.
Some buildings are just wrong, and the worst thing is that ground altitude isn’t shown at all: this map lies. Anyone who’s walked Filbert Street up to the Coit Tower will be very aware of how this map distorts reality.
(thanks to jerakeen for the tip)