Microsoft Virtual Earth is a geospatial mapping platform produced by Microsoft. It allows developers to create applications that layer location-relevant data on top of the Virtual Earth map imagery. This includes imagery taken from satellite sensors, aerial cameras (including "Bird's Eye" aerial imagery taken at 45 degree angle view to show building façades and entrances) as well as 3D city models and terrain. The Virtual Earth platform also provides a comprehensive point-of-interest database and the capability to search by business, person and address. Microsoft uses the Virtual Earth platform to power its Live Search Maps platform.
