Google introduced MapsGL which uses WebGL technology, brings hardware-accelerated graphics to the browser and lets you view 3D buildings in Google Maps, offers smooth transitions between Zoom levels and seamless 45” aerial view rotations and you can swoop quickly from the map view to street view imagery. Currently Google MapsGL works on Chrome 14 + and Firefox 8 Beta. Mozilla released Firefox 8 Beta 3 with support for MapsGL.
Trying MapsGL in Firefox
MapsGL is user opt-in experience, use either Firefox or Chrome browser to visit Google MapsGL and click on “want to try something new?” on left -side of the screen to experience Google Maps in 3D.
To disable MapsGL or opt-out of it click “Classic” button in the left panel.
System Requirements to run MapsGL in your Computer
A WebGL enabled browser
- Chrome 14+
- Firefox 8+
Operating System:
- Mac OS Snow Leopard 10.6+, Lion 10.7+
- Windows Vista or 7
- Linux
Video Card Hardware
- GPU with Direct X 9.0c recommended (Shader Model 3.0+)
- For Windows machines, must have drivers published later than January 1, 2009.
- Some low-end integrated GPUs (like the Intel GMA 3100 and 3150) are not compatible