For the past several years, Google has lead the charge with their mapping technology from their advancements in satellite imagery to Google Street View. Because real estate is an industry that is so highly reliant upon mapping technology, we keep a close eye on the evolution of the technology.
Mapping technology is quickly performing more advanced functions. MapQuest just had a major overhaul to include an improved interface and saved searches, and Google Maps has for some time included Street View. Microsoft, through Bing, has made it clear that they’re coming after the Google Maps market share, and although in the tech sector, Microsoft doesn’t get much airtime because Google is the industry darling, Microsoft has made it clear that they’re moving forward with or without media coverage.
Most IDX solutions offer Google Maps as their service provider for mapping, but with Microsoft’s new Street Side that will be released later this year, that could change. Check out this video explaining Street Side (and yes, I admit that the first 2 minutes 30 seconds are pretty dry, so stick with it):
COOL, huh!? With the ability to locate properties faster on the ground with a mobile device, we believe Street Side has a shot at taking some of that market share. Add that with Microsoft’s recent play to prove their superiority in the augmented reality sector, they just might have the wherewithal to knock Google off of the map.
