Google announced the launch of Google Maps for Business imagery, which enables businesses to buy and use Google Earth imagery for the first time.

Through the new program, Google is giving businesses access to high-res aerial imagery from around the continental U.S. Organizations will be able to view the imagery on a desktop GIS system via WMS, include it on their Google Maps v3 JavaScript API web app, overlay it directly within Google Earth, and view it on native mobile apps and mobile sites.

“Since launching Google Earth in 2005, imagery has become a powerful tool to virtually visit almost anywhere in the world right from a computer, tablet or phone,” says Google Maps for Business product director Vinay Goel. “Organizations also need this type of imagery for their business—whether they’re mapping public service projects, reviewing the environmental impacts in a region or evaluating a property.”

“Businesses want accurate, comprehensive and useful maps, and with Google Maps for Business imagery, organizations now have better access to commercial, high-quality satellite photography,” Goel says.

With the new offering, businesses can use Google Maps Engine to quickly obtain the Google Earth imagery as soon as it’s available.

Google didn’t disclose the pricing in its announcement, and is telling interested parties to contact its sales team.

Image via Google