Looking for a more interesting way to search a location on the Internet than sifting through one Web page after another full of text? Thanks to Google, there is one!

Courtesy of Google's latest three-dimensional (3D) mapping product, dubbed Google Earth (which combines Google search with Keyhole Technology), users are able to find geographic information and explore locations all over the world.

Some main features include:

• Viewing 3D images of buildings in 38 major urban areas across the United States.

• Capturing 3D images of the world's geographical terrain (i.e. mountains, valleys and canyons).

• Using Google's integrated Local search tool that helps find local information such as hotels, restaurants, schools, parks and transportation.

• Easy navigation, tilt and rotate features, as well as the ability to maneuver 3D images for a different perspective.

• Viewing images of areas in Canada, Western Europe and the UK.

• Video playback of driving directions.

• Saving and sharing searches.

According to the Keyhole at Google general manager, the new Google product utilizes broadband streaming technology and 3D graphics so using it appears similar to playing a videogame -- giving users the ability to interactively explore different parts of the world.

Google Earth is currently offered as a free product; however, two more high-powered versions are available for a fee. The latter two are useful for business applications or for users who own a GPS device.

(NOTE: Google is purposely delaying downloads of Google Earth but is promising to accept new downloads shortly. With the amazing search capacitates of this new product ... waiting is well worth it.)

Earthtimes.org June 29, 2005

CNET news.com June 28, 2005