Google Maps just got a wild new feature that lets you time-travel through the streets of Paris. With the power of augmented reality (AR), you can now explore iconic Parisian landmarks as they were in the past.
Imagine standing in front of the Eiffel Tower and seeing it transform before your eyes, taking you back to the Exposition Universelle World Fair of 1889. Or witnessing the construction of the Notre Dame Cathedral in the 12th century. This immersive AR experience is now possible with Google Maps.
To create this feature, Google Arts & Culture collaborated with Ubisoft, the gaming company behind the popular “Assassin’s Creed” series. By combining their expertise in art, culture, and gaming, they’ve developed highly detailed and accurate historical recreations.
Using the feature is simple. Just open Google Maps on your smartphone and navigate to a supported landmark in Paris. Tap on the new “Time Travel” button, and you’ll be transported back in time. You can explore the landmark from different angles and learn about its history through interactive elements.
This AR time-travel feature is a game-changer for tourists and history buffs alike. It offers a unique and engaging way to experience Paris’s rich history. You’re no longer limited to reading about the past; you can now see it come to life before your eyes.
As 9to5Google reports, the collaboration between Google Arts & Culture and Ubisoft ensures that the historical recreations are as accurate as possible. They’ve worked with experts in art, culture, and gaming to create detailed 3D models that faithfully represent the landmarks at different points in history.
Google plans to expand the feature to other cities and landmarks in the future, as reported by Techradar and they’ll be adding more content over time. This is just the beginning of what’s possible with AR in travel and tourism apps.
So, the next time you’re in Paris, be sure to try out this incredible new feature in Google Maps. It’s a time-travel experience unlike any other, and it’s sure to make your visit to the City of Light even more memorable.
How the Feature Works
To access the AR time-travel feature, open Google Maps on your smartphone. Search for a supported landmark in Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame Cathedral. Tap on the landmark’s name to open its information page.
Look for the “View in AR” button and tap it to start the immersive experience. Point your phone’s camera at the landmark, and Google Maps will display a historical recreation of the site as it appeared in the past.
For example, at Notre-Dame Cathedral, witness the iconic structure before the devastating fire of 2019. Admire the cathedral’s stunning architecture and intricate details, all recreated with meticulous accuracy.
The AR feature also provides historical information and fun facts about the landmarks as you explore them. Engage with interactive elements to learn more about the site’s history and significance.
With just a few taps, Google Maps transports you back in time, offering a unique and captivating way to experience Paris’s most famous landmarks. It’s like having a personal time machine in your pocket, ready to take you on an unforgettable journey through history.
Image credit: Google
