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In addition to ground-level capturing, satellites and drones facilitate data collection. High-resolution satellites provide extensive overhead views, while machine learning helps classify features such as roads and buildings using convolutional neural networks (CNNs). This multi-layered approach to gathering information leads to a rich, detailed map.

Layering Detail: HD Maps and Real-Time Updates

Google Maps doesn’t merely show roads; it showcases intricate details, which are vital for advanced navigation systems, especially in autonomous vehicles. High-definition maps feature several layers: geometric details of road shapes, a semantic catalog of road signs, and dynamic information reflecting real-time changes like traffic conditions.