CREATE IMMERSIVE 3D MAPS EXPERIENCES!
At Google I/O 2024, Google Maps Platform team launched the experimental release of Photorealistic 3D Maps in the Maps JavaScript API, which gives developers access to a real-world canvas to build on, powered by Google’s rendering technology. With 3D data, natively rendered within the familiar JavaScript development framework, you can deliver 3D mapping experiences at the speed users expect. Like other features in Maps JavaScript API, Photorealistic 3D Maps was designed as a web component to enable easier and faster web development.
To test the product to its limit, we are excited to announce the Google Photorealistic 3D Maps Challenge, our latest competition where we invite you to use 3D Maps in Maps JavaScript API to build an immersive experience. You will have a chance to win one of 8 available prizes totaling $26,000 (ranging from $1,000 USD to $7,000 USD), an opportunity to meet with a Google employee, and have a chance of your work being featured on a Google website. One (1) grand prize will be awarded plus three (3) additional category-based prizes and up to four (4) honorable mentions. Submissions should include some of the following elements:
- Gamification to make the 3D mapping experience more engaging and interactive,
- Visualization features using 3D Maps elements (polygons, polylines, markers, 3D objects, etc.) to customize the map and present information in a simple, yet insightful manner,
- User experience that prioritizes a seamless and intuitive experience for the user, and
- AI & geospatial integration which uses Google Maps Platform APIs and/or AI to enhance the functionality and capabilities of the 3D maps experience.
WHY JOIN
- Learn and build with Photorealistic 3D Maps for Maps JavaScript API
- Compete for one of the cash prizes, totaling $26,000 USD
- Make connections within the Google Developer community
- Meet with a Google employee to share your thoughts
- A chance to have your project featured on Google channels
GET STARTED WITH 3D MAPS
- Review the rules and register for the hackathon
- Sign up for a free account - Photorealistic 3D Maps in Maps JavaScript API is currently in experimental release and is available at no cost during experimental.
- Learn about the tools you could use for your project
- Join the Discord community to explore resources and start brainstorming and building.
We’re excited to see what you build when you go beyond the map in Google’s 3D Maps Challenge,
Stay connected - Follow us on LinkedIn, X, YouTube, Discord, and GitHub.
Requirements
What to Build
Build a new web experience that uses Google Maps Platform Photorealistic 3D Maps in Maps JavaScript API within at least one of the following categories:
Categories
- Location discovery: Reimagine how we discover and interact with the world around us. Use 3D Maps to think beyond traditional wayfinding and create innovative solutions that help people discover hidden gems, find the perfect spot for their needs, and navigate complex environments with ease.
- Immersive marketing: Leverage 3D Maps to create captivating marketing experiences that engage users. Utilize the power of photorealistic canvas and 3D assets to showcase campaigns that seamlessly blend advertising with the real world or create an interactive storytelling experience.
- Built environment & sustainability: Use photorealistic 3D to visualize the built environment and design solutions that promote sustainability. Your experience can tackle challenges related to urban planning, energy, transportation, and environmental impact.
See 3D Maps JavaScript documentation and Code Samples for examples and how to get started.
Note: Please see website for coverage information to build for locations where Google Maps Platform Photorealistic 3D Maps is currently available
The project must comply with the Google Maps Platform Terms of Service.
General attributes we’ll look for across all categories:
- Gamification - Incorporates game elements to make the 3D mapping experience more engaging and interactive.
- Visualization features - Utilizes the 3D Maps elements (polygons, polylines, markers, 3D models, etc) to customize the map and present information in a simple, yet insightful manner.
- User experience - Prioritizes a smooth, intuitive, and enjoyable experience for the user, with clear navigation, accessible features, a visually appealing design, and impressive camera control and animation to showcase the 3D environment.
- AI & geospatial integration - Uses Google Maps Platform APIs and/or AI to enhance the functionality and capabilities of the 3D maps experience, such as through automating user tasks or integrating Places data.
What to Submit
Source Code. You must provide a link to your GitHub project code repository for your virtual immersive experience using Photorealistic 3D Maps in Maps JavaScript API in your submission so that we can review and test your submission. The code repository should have instructions and everything the review team and judges will need to test the project.
Demo video. Include a recorded demo video (about 3 minutes in length) that demonstrates your submission. Your video should show the project functioning as described. Videos must be uploaded to YouTube, Vimeo, or Facebook Video and made public.
Write up. Provide a description of your project. Explain why you built your project and how it uses Google Maps Platform Photorealistic 3D Maps.
Prizes
$26,000 in prizes
Grand Prize
• $7,000 in USD
• Virtual coffee with Google Maps Platform team member
• Promotion of your hackathon project subject to Google's discretion (e.g. blog post)
Best of location discovery
• $5,000 in USD
• Virtual coffee with Google Maps Platform team member
• Promotion of your hackathon project subject to Google's discretion (e.g. blog post)
Best of immersive marketing
• $5,000 in USD
• Virtual coffee with Google Maps Platform team member
• Promotion of your hackathon project subject to Google’s discretion (e.g. blog post)
Best of built environment & sustainability
• $5,000 in USD
• Virtual coffee with Google Maps Platform team member
• Promotion of your hackathon project subject to Google’s discretion (e.g. blog post)
Honorable Mentions
(4)
• $1,000 in USD
• Promotion of your hackathon project subject to Google’s discretion (e.g. blog post)
Devpost Achievements
Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:
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<% if (has_levels) { %> level <%= next_level %> <% } %>Judges
Jonathan Herbert
Director of Product Management, Google
Haylee Conradi
Product Manager, Google Maps Platform
Ahsan Ashraf
Product Marketing Manager, Google Maps Platform
Matt Toon
Head of Solution Engineering - International, Google Maps Platform
Aleh Medzviadziuk
Staff Software Engineer, Google Maps Platform
Mike Pegg
Head of Developer Relations, Google Maps Platform
Claire Barry
Staff UX Design, Google Geo Developer Immersive Experiences
Judging Criteria
-
Functionality
How scalable is the application? How well are the APIs used within the project? Can it be used in other regions, or can it be used by more than one type of audience? -
Purpose
Are you solving an existing problem? Is it an application that would encourage a user to use it more than once for its benefits? -
Content & visualization
How creative is the application? What’s the visual quality like? Does the project utilize the 3D Maps elements (polygons, polylines, markers, 3D models, etc) to effectively present information in a way that is easy to understand and insightful? -
Technical execution & integrations
How well are you showcasing Photorealistic 3D Maps? Does the project leverage Google Maps Platform APIs and/or AI to enhance the functionality and capabilities of the 3D maps experience, such as through automating user tasks or integrating Places data? -
User experience
Does the project prioritize a smooth experience, intuitive navigation, accessible features, appealing design, and impressive camera control and animation? Does it incorporate game elements to make the 3D mapping experience engaging?