Google Maps replaces Hybrid button with Terrain

by Brad Linder Nov 27th 2007

Google seems to have ~~done away with~~ hidden the Hybrid map view in Google Maps. The Hybrid view was always kind of a better idea on paper than in practice. Rather than choosing between satellite views and 2D map views, you could see a satellite image with lines and names for streets. But it was really always pretty hard to tell what you were looking at.

Now if you look over to the spot where the Hybrid button used to be, you'll notice a new Terrain option. As the name suggests, clicking this button will bring up a map showing geographical terrain. If you zoom in on a hilly or mountainous area, you'll see a 3D approximation of the terrain. If you zoom in on a major city like New York, you'll see 3D renderings of buildings.

One thing to note is that you can't zoom in as close with the Terrain view as you can with the regular map view. Overall, we're not sure Terrain is any more useful than Hybrid if you're not planning a bicycle trip. But it sure is pretty.

Update: As several readers point out in the comments, the Hybrid button is gone, but the Hybrid view is not. Just select Show Labels under the Satellite view.

[via Google Operating System]

Tags: google-maps, maps, terrain

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)

blargle said 4:22PM on 11-27-2007

Actually, I found Hybrid pretty useful... Luckily it IS still there, as the "Show Labels" options when you click on the satellite view.

Technically, the Terrain option is showing what's called a "Shaded Relief".

Tony Ruscoe said 4:23PM on 11-27-2007

It's not replaced Hybrid view, it's in addition to it; it's only replaced the Hybrid button. (In order to get Hybrid view, you just select "Show labels" on the "Satellite" view.)

BikeFixe said 4:39PM on 11-27-2007

"we're not sure Terrain is any more useful than Hybrid if you're not planning a bicycle trip"

That idea was forming in my head as I read your description - this will be perfect for scouting bicycle routes! Definitely an upgrade.

Todd Henkel said 8:26PM on 11-27-2007

Hybrid view I found to be very useful. Perhaps it is because I have been living in mostly suburban and rural areas. I admit it was awkward in urban settings.

Hopefully Google will allow users to choose among which option is most most useful to them...

Racetrack_Owner said 9:08AM on 11-28-2007

I've also found Hybrid to be very useful.

For instance, I've had people tell me, "It's in the Publix strip mall at the intersection of X & Y." Fire up Google Maps and find the intersection, click hybrid, and look for the corner that is probably a giant supermarket. This is especially handy when you're headed to a high-traffic area on a motorcycle, for example, and don't want to wind up three lanes away from the turn lane.

I really wish Google would give up this stupid phone idea and usurp the in-car satnav market. Could you imagine how great a nav system would be if was based on Google Maps?

michael said 10:32PM on 11-28-2007

Had this in Live Maps 3D for awhile, just go to 3D mode, go to ground level, and you can see physical terrain everywhere.

Nothing new here.

Geotrotter said 8:23AM on 11-29-2007

Here is some Terrain views on Google Maps : http://www.geo-trotter.com/cat-relief.php

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