Bing Maps does not label its street-level feature as “Street View”. Instead, it is called “Streetside”. This is why many users think the feature is missing when, in reality, it is just named differently.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Streetside is not available everywhere. Unlike Google Maps, which covers a massive number of locations, Bing Maps has limited coverage. So if you do not see the option, it might simply mean that the feature is not available in that specific area.
The process of enabling Streetside is quite intuitive once you know where to look. You do not need to install anything or enable special settings. Everything works directly from your web browser.
In this detailed walkthrough, you will learn how to enable StreetView or Streetside in Bing Maps, understand how the feature works, and get tips to use it efficiently.
Let’s do it!
How to Enable StreetView/Streetside in Bing Maps?
To enable Streetside/StreetView in Bing Maps, open Bing Maps in your browser, search for a location, and switch to the “Streetside” view by dragging the Streetside icon or selecting a highlighted street. If Streetside imagery is available for that area, the map will transition into a street-level perspective automatically.
Let’s walk through the exact steps so you can start exploring places at street level without any confusion.
Step 1: Open Bing Maps and Search for a Location
The first step is to launch Bing Maps in your browser. Simply go to the Bing Maps website using any modern browser like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
Once the map loads, you will see a search bar at the top. This is where you need to type the name of the location you want to explore. It could be a city, a specific address, a landmark, or even a business name.
After entering your location, press Enter. The map will automatically zoom into the selected area. This step is important because the Streetside feature only works after a location has been identified.
Make sure to zoom in enough to clearly see streets and roads. Streetside works best when you are viewing a detailed map rather than a zoomed-out global view. If you stay too far out, you may not see the option to enable street-level imagery.
Step 2: Locate the “Streetside” Option
Now that your location is visible on the map, the next step is to find the “Streetside” feature.
On Bing Maps, Streetside is usually represented by a small icon, often resembling a person or a navigation figure. Depending on updates to the interface, it may appear on the side of the screen or as part of the map controls.
Another way to identify Streetside availability is by looking at the roads. If Streetside imagery is available, certain streets may appear highlighted or interactive. These highlighted paths indicate that you can switch to a street-level view for that area.
If you do not see the Streetside icon immediately, try zooming in further or moving around the map. Sometimes the option only appears when you are close enough to a supported street.
Step 3: Drag and Drop the Streetside Icon
Once you locate the Streetside icon, click on it and drag it onto the map. This is one of the easiest ways to activate the feature.
As you drag the icon, you will notice that certain streets become highlighted. These highlights show where street-level imagery is available.
Drop the icon onto one of these highlighted streets. As soon as you release it, Bing Maps will switch from the standard map view to the “Streetside view”.
The transition usually happens instantly, and you will now see a panoramic street-level image of the selected location. You can rotate the view, zoom in or out, and even move forward or backward along the street.
This drag-and-drop method is the most direct way to enable StreetView in Bing Maps.
After entering Streetside mode, you can explore the area just like you would in real life.
Click on the arrows or simply tap on the road to move forward. Drag your mouse to look around in different directions. You can also use zoom controls to get a closer look at buildings, signs, or surroundings.
Navigation is smooth and intuitive. Think of it as a virtual walk through the location. This is especially useful if you are planning a trip, checking out a neighborhood, or verifying an address.
If you want to exit Streetside view, simply click the back button or switch back to the map view using the on-screen controls.
Step 5: Check for Coverage Limitations
Sometimes, you may follow all the steps correctly but still not see any Streetside imagery. This is usually due to limited coverage.
Bing Maps does not support Streetside in every country or region. Even within supported areas, coverage may vary from one street to another.
If the feature is unavailable, you will not see highlighted streets or the option to enter street-level mode. In such cases, you can try searching for a different location or a nearby major city where coverage is more likely.
Understanding this limitation can save you a lot of time and frustration.
Step 6: Use Alternative Access Methods
In some cases, you can access Streetside without dragging the icon.
For example, when you click on a specific location or business, Bing Maps may show a preview image. If Streetside is available, this preview can often be clicked to directly enter street-level mode.
Another method is to right-click on the map and look for an option related to Streetside. While this may not always appear, it can sometimes provide a shortcut to the feature.
These alternative methods are helpful if you prefer not to use drag-and-drop interactions.
Faqs
What is the difference between “Street View” and “Streetside”?
“Street View” is the term used by Google Maps, while “Streetside” is Bing Maps’ version of the same concept. Both provide street-level imagery, but they differ in coverage and interface design.
Why can’t I find Streetside in Bing Maps?
This usually happens because the location you selected does not have Streetside coverage. Try zooming in further or searching for a different area.
Is Streetside available on mobile devices?
Yes, you can access Bing Maps on mobile browsers. However, the experience may vary depending on the device and browser you are using.
Do I need to enable any settings to use Streetside?
No, there are no special settings required. Streetside works automatically if the feature is available in your selected location.
Can I use Streetside offline?
No, Streetside requires an internet connection because it loads real-time imagery from Bing’s servers.
Is Bing Maps Streetside free to use?
Yes, the feature is completely free for users. You only need a browser and an internet connection.