Holy Streetview Batman - a full driving simulator??

Well here's an insight into where we'll be heading once the National Broadband Network is in place and we have high-speed internet streaming: a full driving simulator using a combination of Google's Maps, Earth and Streetview products.

First time in to this wondrous site, you'll be asked to install a browser plug-in. Then you'll be away.

Select Tour, add in a start and destination, then click on Play. And wait.

In time, the matrix of windows with start moving - one is a Streetview window, one is a Maps perspective (with 3D buildings added where they've been 'built'), one a Maps overhead, and one can change between a bird's eye view, a map and scenic photos along the way. Embiggerate the picture to get a better idea.

With high speed broadband, this could be an amazing tool for exploring the world without even leaving home. But if your connection is on the slow side, don't be tempted to speed up the simulated driving speed - the Streetview window will not cope and the experience is lost somewhat.

Happy exploring!