Google Earth Adds Browser-Based Flight Simulator
The update turns Google Earth from a static globe viewer into an interactive flight experience accessible to anyone with a browser, no app install required.
Reporting from 1 sources: GIGAZINE.
Google Earth has added a flight simulator feature to its web version, allowing users to fly around the globe from a browser without downloading an app. The tool, announced by Google Japan, includes keyboard and mouse controls, a HUD display, and a crash-restart mechanic. It is available globally as an experimental feature.
The flight simulator is accessed through the web version of Google Earth by opening the Tools menu and selecting Flight Simulator. A HUD symbology shows altitude and angle. Users control the aircraft with the keyboard: up and down arrows for ascent and descent, left and right arrows for banking and turning. Speed is adjusted with PgUp and PgDn keys or by clicking an on-screen indicator. Mouse control is also available but less precise.
By searching for a location before launching the simulator, users can fly over familiar landmarks. Colliding with the ground or a mountain triggers a crash message with an option to restart above the crash site. The feature is labeled experimental and is rolling out globally.
Synthesized by Yomimono from the 1 cited source below, including Japanese-language reporting where cited, then editorially reviewed before publishing.
Sources
- GIGAZINE Google Earthで飛行機操縦シミュレーションが可能に