How to View Historical Images on Google Maps and Google Earth

Google Maps offers a feature that allows users to explore historical imagery through Street View. On both desktop and mobile, users can access past images dating back as early as 2007 in some areas. By clicking on the ‘See more dates’ link, they can view older images of streets and landmarks. The article provides step-by-step instructions for using this feature on desktop and mobile devices, including how to navigate within Street View and return to the latest images.

Additionally, Google Earth provides a way to view historical satellite imagery, with some locations having images available from the 1970s. Users can activate historical imagery through a toolbar button on the web or enable it via the layers option in the mobile app. The timeline feature allows users to scroll through past satellite images, with an optional timelapse function to see changes over time. While older satellite images may have lower resolution due to technological limitations, this feature provides valuable insights into urban development and environmental changes.