Google Earth takes it to the streets

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Build it, and they will come: I can see that there will soon be enough technology for us to link a virtual world to the real world. What does this mean, exactly? Well, imagine if we could have pretty much all roads GPS?d, all building?s mapped out physically so you can get floor plans, and all phone books linked in.

Now, superimpose this into a virtual world.

Imagine putting on a set of 3D goggles, and going to an ACTUAL business meeting, an ACTUAL bank branch, an ACTUAL workplace, etc.

The benefits in terms of pollution alone would be staggering. And it?s likely that the more advanced nations could achieve this quickly due to the communications infrastructure needed to hook this all together.

While this may seem like a ?Matrix? scenario, think about it ? we do actually have many of the technologies today. Our problems largely revolve around scaling. While I don?t agree with being ?plugged in?, I do think using goggles and perhaps some type of body suit would make a good human ? computer interface.

We should always ask ourselves ?where are we going with this?. The simplistic ad revenue models used today by Google et al are of course what will grease the wheels. But its really the longer term scenarios that fascinate me. When companies like Google can wrap together a more complete virtual world, there will be less need to actually venture out of your home. Some people will like this, and some will not. Frankly, as I get older (37 now) I see less and less in my local neighbourhood to get excited about, and more and more online that captures my interest.

Build it, and they will come.; Posted by: roberto_maietta@... Posted on: 05/30/07 You are currently: a Guest | Members login | Terms of Use