Google detailed how it is planning on bringing better 3D maps: “This starts with planes equipped with custom Google-designed imaging systems, positioned in coordinates,” Birch explained.

It’s built on top of Famous Engine, for rendering JavaScript. Previously known as Famo.us, the technology has had held the promise of enabling complex 3D UIs via JavaScript and Web development.

Since the release of iOS 15 in 2021, Apple Maps has been rolling out a more detailed map with custom-designed 3D landmarks in major cities around the world.