Google to allow usage of Google Earth data for businesses

Google Earth launched 9 years ago under the original name of EarthViewer 3D, and has since taken many pictures of our beloved Earth. It has become quite a popular tool, and although its popularity might be shifting due to Google Maps offering Street View, Google has decided to start making a profit from its vast database.

So, starting today, any company, business or government office who wishes to make use of Google’s database, will be able to do so for a certain amount of money.

The move makes sense for both Google and any business who needs the use: For Google, since they have a database, so why not make some money off it? For businesses, since Google already possesses a database, why create their own, if they could save all that money and just purchase straight from Google?

Here’s Google’s official statement:

Today, we’re launching Google Maps for Business imagery, offering businesses the chance to purchase and use Google Earth imagery for the first time. This gives them access to high-resolution aerial imagery covering the continental U.S. And it will help customers like government agencies get the imagery they need without collecting their own aerial photography. 

Don’t be confused by other arrangements, such as if a news company wants to use Google Earth imagery in its news flash, it needs to pay Google for the use.

For now, the database is only open for US companies which seek it, and if you are one of them and you’re interested, contact Google’s sales team here.