A simple edit to the URL for a Google Map can get you a closer look than what Google allows via its zoom-in button.
by
Janeth Kent
Date: 24-04-2013
(Credit: Screenshot by Matt Elliott/CNET)
In an effort to debunk a supposed Google Maps murder scene, Reddit user "xythrowawayy" shared a simple trick to zoom in closer than Google Maps allows. Google lets you zoom in only so far, but if you make a small tweak to a URL for a given location, you may be able to zoom in a level or two closer. Here's how it works: First, find a spot on Google Maps and zoom in as far as the "+" button above the magnification slider on the left edge of the map allows. Be sure to stop short of going into Street View, if the location you're gazing at supports it.
(Credit: Screenshot by Matt Elliott/CNET)
With your map zoomed in as far as it will go (but before entering Street View), click the link button located next to the print button to the left of the map. Copy the link and paste it into your browser's address bar but don't hit enter.
(Credit: Screenshot by Matt Elliott/CNET)
Instead, click in your address bar and move the cursor all the way to the right of the long URL you just pasted in. It should end with something like "&z=20" or similar. The number at the end is the current zoom level. Change it to one number higher, and if Google Maps has imagery for a higher zoom level for that location, you'll see it. I found some locations that let you zoom in two or three levels closer, though the image starts getting blurry.
(Credit: Screenshot by Matt Elliott/CNET)
This trick is a great way to take a closer look with Google Maps, whether you're attempting to solve a murder mystery or not.
Licenciada en Bellas Artes y programadora por pasión. Cuando tengo un rato retoco fotos, edito vídeos y diseño cosas. El resto del tiempo escribo en MA-NO WEB DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT.
