We've been stiffed, again.
 

So, I was reading an article about Google Video on CNN this morning. Interesting service, possibly a good addition to the iTunes video services. But they are using a proprietary service that forces you to be online when you access your videos, and this service won't work with Apple!

Now, I could argue for a long time about how I'm sick of all the different formats and compatibility issues we see all over the internet, but that's been hashed to death. What has me mad is how Google has done this twice now. Anyone here seen Google Earth? It's a 3D imager of the whole planet, that also doesn't work on Macintosh...

I know we make up a smaller percentage of computer users, but I like my little mac, and I want to be able to use Google services. What's up with this?!? Gaaa!!!

:) ...okay, I feel better now... :)

Many companies don't support the Mac at all. Google is not as bad as others, because they often start on Windows with a little note saying Mac version is coming. As far as your example, Google Earth, not only does their site say they are working on a Mac version, but an unofficial beta was leaked (not by Google) several weeks ago. I don't know if it can still be downloaded from anywhere but it was operational, although buggy. Google Maps was the same way; it didn't work on the Mac in the beginning but it was in their plan and they did deliver.

The companies to really complain about are those who not only do not have Mac versions but will never even promise to.

From Ars Technica:

Oh, goody. Here I was all in a snit and I didn't even need to be. Thanks :).

There is a google earth for the mac. I believe its a beta but you know what...I can't find where I got it from now. I think it was only up for a short time because I'm pretty sure I found it where its supposed to be and the page says the download expired. Maybe someone else can find it or maybe its gone for a while. Maybe I'm one of the lucky few. (Cool!...i mean....i hope you guys can find it.)

I am one of the lucky few.....http://www.macupdate.com/info.php/id/20124

Okay, Mr. Lucky Few, how on earth are you going to get that file to me? That's all I want to know.

It's not worth having. Google Earth is mostly a gimmick unless you have some specific needs to see things from that perspective. After about 6 minutes of "oooooh, cool" it wears off and you go find something else to do. And it's REALLY buggy and slow/jerky.

For your information CAlvarez, I kind of enjoy "ooooohing and aaaahhing" for several months at a time... uh, yeah. Anyway, I know it's buggy and jerky, specially since it's beta, but I really like geography actually, so I think it would be fun.

Plus, if you get one of the more advanced versions you can add 3D buildings onto the map. Could be good if you're going to a new area and want an idea of how things might look.

But, in the end, I don't feel a great need to justify my wanting the program. I just want the program. Anyway you can get it to me ScreenGem?

also we've been stiifed by divx as well they have a new plug-in for pc web browsers so you can view divx files right in your browser. divx has a deal with google to show these videos with that plugin and the mac and linux versions are on the way.

How do you think I can get it to you? I don't have the disk image anymore, and the appliction is almost 40mb. Just tell me how and i'll try.

Hmm...dang good question. But I think I might be getting it through another source. I'm told that IM clients can transfer files pretty speedily. If you have a web page, you could upload the file to the server and let the whole world see it :). I'm not sure other than that.

Zalister, go to http://www.macboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=48
and see the post anyone try unofficial GoogleEarth for Mac? You can still download earth there. jackcar

Well, maps are useful, and Google Earth is a big help in cataloging and organizing location databases. That's why Google sells more sophisticated versions of Google Earth. Since the basic Earth is free you can use it to identify locations so you can quickly use them yourself. Think about, for example, a guy who runs regional franchises and wants to build a map of them. Real estate agents, governments, etc. As mapping becomes easier, it becomes less of a niche, like everything else that computers have made easier, take a look at the whole Apple iLife suite for examples of "obscure" professions that are now home activities.

There's fun stuff too.

AppleInsider has a picture of Google Earth for Mac OS X.

Thanks jackar, I'll try that.

I think this is what you guys are looking for. http://www.googleearth4mac.tk/

Yup, that's the link you finnaly run into when you are going the way jackar said you should. It works too. I just downloaded it, and it works fine.

The link was a "limited time link" and I missed it. It's no good now. :(

Is there any kind soul who would be willing to send me a copy? I would dearly love to get my hands on it.

Vicki, check your gmail!

;)

retcynm

I LOVE YOU! :D :D :D

It must need Tiger as it didn't work on my G5, but it worked great on my PowerBook! I am so excited to have this! I have a trip coming up, and I needed to be able to view the terrain, but Google Maps just wasn't detailed enough. But THIS works! Thank you! Thank you! You just made my day! :D

P.S. Also cool that the gmail email downloaded into my MailSmith, attachment and all, automatically just as it should. So that's also working as I had hoped! :D

Just color me happy today! LOL! :D

:D

retcynm

I wouldn't mind having the .dmg, since i deleted it. Can you send me it too?

I was staying out of this thread for a while because that beta was not officially released (i.e., we're not supposed to have it), but I just saw on digg.com that Google has today released an OFFICIAL beta!!
http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2006/...ld-pc-too.html