VR’s killer app just got a major update.
It was six months ago when Google launched a VR version of Google Earth for the HTC Vive. And still to this day, Google Earth VR remains one of the best, if not the best, app experiences available in VR.
An app with such a mass appeal like Google’s Tilt Brush, Earth VR lets you visit locations around the world in 3D. Whether you decide to fly over a city, stand on top of the highest peaks, or just go on a casual walk through Mother Nature’s finest landscapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Now Google Earth VR is getting a major update. Originally launched for free on the HTC Vive, Earth VR is available on the Rift with support for Oculus Touch controllers — and of course it’s still free.
On top of expanding the amount of headsets that now have access to Earth VR, the long requested feature of “Search” has also been added. You can just type an address or location name and quickly visit anywhere in the world. I can’t tell you how long it took most of us to find some locations while in Earth VR as you swoop down from space, only relying on physical landmarks.
If Oculus Rift plus Touch support and search wasn’t enough for you, Google has announced that they’ve also added 27 new hand-picked locations to help you discover even more of the world’s most incredible places. Some new locations include Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, Table Mountain in South Africa, Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina, Mt Lassen in California, Palermo in Italy, and more.
After wondering for months if Google Earth VR would ever show up on the Oculus platform, we can now all rejoice and explore together, what may still be VR’s killer app. Let us know what your favorite places to explore are in the comments below.
