http://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,1282,67190,00.html?tw=wn_tophead_1

Naturally, we've all seen a bazillion maps with the continents drawn on them, so it's a shock to see that those maps really are pretty accurate (how in the world did they do that from the ground?) I had a lot of fun playing with these maps - even locating the street where I live (memories of My Fair Lady intrude! :-)

But is there any purpose to these services, rather than just good ole fun - not that's there's anything wrong with fun? I would have to say yes, there's a big point. If nothing else, it gets users in the habit of going to Google for all kinds of services, thereby creating familiarity and custom. Actually, this is a classic example of viral marketing. Smart Google.