Google to Hold 3D Maps Event Ahead of WWDC

Google to Hold 3D Maps Event Ahead of WWDC

Google has just sent out a very interesting invitation to members of the media (via TheNextWeb), offering a “behind-the-scenes look at Google Maps.” Google plans to demo their “newest technology” and give attendees at the event a glance at new features coming to their platform.

At this invitation-only press gathering, Brian McClendon, VP of Google Maps and Google Earth, will give you a behind-the-scenes look at Google Maps and share our vision. We’ll also demo some of the newest technology and provide a sneak peek at upcoming features that will help people get where they want to go – both physically and virtually. We hope to see you there.

The timing is particularly interesting, given that Apple’s own WWDC conference kicks off on June 11, and that Apple is widely believed to be planning their own internal 3D-enabled Maps platform for iOS 6, which they will likely unveil at the event.

So what is Google’s game here? Considering that the invite refers to the “next dimension” of their Maps service, they’re likely planning a 3D mapping service of their own – and the timing suggests they may be planning to head Apple off at the pass.

While nothing is known for certain about Google or their plans, we’ll all know for sure in a few days! We’ll keep you updated on any relevant details as soon as we hear more!