MSN Launches Virtual Earth
Things I like so far:
- Dynamic searches as you move around the map. For example, I can search for "Starbucks", and as I move around the map it dynamically scopes the query to the area which is visible.
- Hybrid street name/aerial view.
- Ability to have multiple searches at any time
What I don't like:
- I made the mistake of installing the "locate me" helper application. Apparently this guy only works with Wireless connections, and since I am on my wired connection here in my office, it doesn't work properly. I can't seem to figure out how to disable it though and just do a regular IP lookup. I think the app should be smart enough to realize though that a wireless connection is not available and fall back to IP lookup on its own. (Update: As Mattew pointed out in the comment, it seems that my experience has been less than optimal here in that both the Locator tool and IP-based lookup are failing... in fact it does do exactly what I want to do).
- The mouse scroll for zooming in and out is awesome, but I think it could be a bit smoother.