Google Business Photos for Maps: Virtually visit inside businesses

Google has announced Business Photos for Maps, a new product that lets you peek inside businesses as well as see the exteriors. Using Business Photos, you'll be able to "enter" businesses, such as restaurants and hotels, right from the Maps interface and have a panoramic look around. Google's focusing on storefront businesses for now, as opposed to law or medical offices.

Google is scheduling photo shoots now with business owners in "select cities" in the U.S. Australia, and Japan. According to Mashable, Business Photos for Maps should begin to roll out next week.

Could be very handy when you're planning a trip or a party, just to make sure the interior isn't oversold by the facade.

You'll Soon Be Able to See Inside Buildings With Google Maps Mashable

—Carol Mangis