New features for Bing

7th December, 2009 by adina
Tags: , , , ,

On December 2nd, 2009, Microsoft has made another step in the competition with Google: the company improved Bing’s search features, especially for maps. The beta version of Silverlight Bing Maps now has a more advanced Streetside view, which reveals on-the-ground panorama pictures belonging to mapped-out locations, having some road overlays and the possibility to navigate through the world using just a few clicks; these features are similar to Google’s Street View. Bing’s technology uses pictures gathered in a 3D perspective. It also benefits from an application gallery that can easily transform geolocated data into street-level look, like Twitter feeds or local blogs.

Additionally, there is a Bird’s Eye view option, which uses 3D models for the existing view; this allows better a view over urban the areas and natural landscapes. Other features include Photosynth galleries, easier driving directions and weather.

A browser that can use Silverlight is needed for a full experience, non-Microsoft browsers (Firefox, Safari) being accepted as well. The AJAX version is compatible with other sites, but most of the new functionality will be lost.

Microsoft has also improved the Windows Mobile search application for Bing. It is similar to Google Mobile App, supporting voice commands for searches, but it also has quick auto location finding with map directions. It focuses mostly on answers over real results. Other applications are expected from Microsoft, but the company has only granted web-based access to iPhone users.


  • Share

 

Readers Comments