Google is testing indoors Street View

INTERNET SPIDER WRANGLER Google is testing out another feature for its Street View mapping software, a look inside the shops you are virtually passing.

The feature will please stores no doubt, and is offered on a voluntary basis. It is only on trial so far.

"Building on the Google Art Project, which took Street View technology inside 17 acclaimed museums, this project is another creative implementation of Street View technology, to help businesses as they build their online presence," a company spokesman told the BBC.

"We hope to enable businesses to highlight the qualities that make their locations stand out through professional, high-quality imagery."

A few select locales including London, Paris, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the entire US will see the indoors photos first and Google appears to be offering spots to those firms that most often appear in its searches.

Surprisingly, big name brands are unlikely to make it into the trial, but rather restaurants, hotels, smaller shops and gyms. Unsurprisingly, hospitals and lawyers' offices will not be included.

Fish-eye lenses will be used to create 360 degree views of the selected indoor locations. µ