Forbes Shares Google Earth Preview: 3D

The August 14 issue of Forbes (annoying registration now required) includes an article by Rich Karlgaard who got a preview of a future version of GE. No big surprises, but something of which to be aware.
Recently I got a peek at a future version of Google Earth, which will showcase a much-improved 3-D depiction of terrain and buildings. This cool software could make tons of money--from ads. Imagine using Google (nasdaq: GOOG - news - people ) Earth to zoom low on a city street. Gone is the old pancake-flat look of buildings. They will be depicted in stark relief. And here's the moneymaker: Addresses that have bought ads, such as restaurants, shops or commercial buildings for lease, will stand out as a cut above the rest--in perfect, rich detail and color. Click on one of these buildings and you'll be whisked away to the establishment's Web site.