Google has announced a new certification standard for ‘Street View ready’ cameras.

Street View standards

The new standards rate a cameras’ technical specs using compatibility with Google’s own Street View as the benchmark.

Already, there are twenty Google certified 360-degree cameras prepped for launch in 2017.

Four standards

The certification standards cover four different functional focal points: mobile, auto, VR and workflow.

‘Mobile ready’ certification simply means that a camera’s got what it takes to upload to Street View directly from the image capture device. The ‘auto ready’ standard is geared towards vehicle mounted cameras.

‘VR ready’ indicates more advanced virtual reality capabilities. ‘Workflow ready’ certified cameras will integrate smoothly with the Street View Publish API for desktop publishing capability.

Brand appeal

These new certifications will add value for some consumers. There may be some questions about how much Street View compatibility translates into broader applications.

More immediately, these certifications will appeal to photo tech promoters.

The Street View brand is well recognised. Further, it’s a leader of 360 visualisations online. As such, the certification is a top opportunity for camera manufacturers and marketers to leverage that established brand.

Will Google certification be a factor in your next camera purchase decision?

Copy Transmission is a Melbourne-based agency :: Better Brands. Loud & Clear.