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Google Earth Beta for Mac

Posted by Zonk on from the hooray-for-earth dept.

Thijs van As writes "AppleInsider reports that Google is developing a Google Earth version for Mac OS X. From the screenshots it looks similar to the Windows version, which is out since June 2005. The OS X version uses OpenGL rendering." From the article: "Earlier this month, a pre-release version of Google Earth for Mac OS X that uses OpenGL rendering reportedly began making the rounds overseas. The 40MB application packs a hefty set of preferences, allowing users to tweak detail and color, and control the speed of their 'flights.' Google Earth interfaces with Google's Web-based mapping service, Google Maps, in providing local search results and driving directions. However, sources say Google Earth for Mac OS X includes a superior set of satellite imagery when compared to the Google Maps Web service, offering additional clarity and a deeper zoom function."

6 of 64 comments (clear)

  1. google earth beta download by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Informative

    well you dont have to wait for it http://mypersonalgetaway.com/

    1. Re:google earth beta download by aclarke · · Score: 3, Informative

      Very very cool. I have it running on my computer right now. Runs great on my 1.67 powerbook. AWESOME, thanks!

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      www.clarke.ca
  2. For similar functionality with more focus on sci by Ilgaz · · Score: 4, Informative

    There is Earthbrowser on OS X (and win32) for ages. I don't think it is same with Google earth but it is much more educational and fun program.

    They now added satellite photos feature so makes it more cool.

    It is installed on many schools,universities but doesn't make it "boring". Especially on hurricane season. ;)

    Check yourself

    http://www.earthbrowser.com/

  3. Re:why did they choose windows first, instead... by dr.badass · · Score: 3, Informative

    why did they choose windows first, instead...of a solution that was cross platform, like Java or python or perl?

    Google didn't develop it from scratch. They bought up a company called Keyhole. Google Earth is basically a free version of Keyhole's $400 product, which is now "Google Earth Pro".

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    Don't become a regular here -- you will become retarded.
  4. download by tezbobobo · · Score: 5, Informative

    SHIT! I waited half a day for someone to list the download site - and noone did!

    If you want to download it, here it is.

  5. Re:Fell off the ugly tree and hit every branch. by TheRaven64 · · Score: 4, Informative

    Apple implement the OpenStep specification - a cross platform spec for development of GUI applications. Sun also provided an implementation at one point, and the GNU project provides one in the form of GNUstep, which runs happily on all UNIX variants I've encountered and only slightly less happily on Windows. I, and many others, have no problems developing cross-platform apps which look and feel native on OS X.

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