what could possibly be next?

If you want to be frightened -- I mean truly frightened -- about the development and availability of mapping and imaging technology and the future of the internet and convergence of previously-unrelated technologies, download and play with Google Earth. You will need a broadband internet connection and a fairly new computer to make it work at faster than a snail's pace, but if you've got that you're in business.

Google Earth

Unbelievable. And two months ago I was in awe of Google Local and Google AutoLink; this brings it to a whole nother level. Google is advancing the ball nearly every week it seems like; I wasn't sure what they wanted with Keyhole, but that question is answered now. They are simply not leaving me enough time to be properly impressed before they move on to the next thing. Play with Google Earth for awhile, then think about Google Maps, Google Search, the proliferation of GPS devices, city- and region-wide wi-fi, and THEN think about where this is going (or don't if you want to avoid driving yourself to becoming a luddite). It'll be pretty neat to stand outside a strange restaurant, look at it, look at my phone, and see a Zagat's review without having to ask for it. At the same time, I can't help but feeling that this is either really cool or really scary, and I'm currently undecided as to which I think it is. No matter what I conclude (or you conclude for yourself), there's no denying we're living in an interesting period in history.