Google rolls out indoor maps to desktops

A revamp to Google Maps means that desktops, and not just Android devices, can now be used to see inside buildings, such as London Bridge Station and Selfridges.

Google introduced indoor locations in November last year, but only for Maps on devices running its Android mobile operating system. On Wednesday, the company said desktop users can now take virtual tours and see over 10,000 detailed floor plans of locations in nine countries.

"Simply zoom in on a building on Google Maps, and you'll automatically see a detailed floor plan with helpful labels for gates at the airport, stores within the mall, departments within a retail shop, as well as ATMs, restrooms and more," it said in a post to Google+.

Indoor maps in the UK include locations such as Stanstead Airport (but not Heathrow), the O2 Arena, and Victoria station. While floor plans are there for all, only some have virtual tours available.

Google has more than 10,000 floor plans of locations in Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Japan, the US, Sweden and Switzerland, as well as the UK. It plans to add more, and it is encouraging businesses and other venue owners to upload their own floor plans.