Learn about data layers in Google Earth

This product or feature is Experimental (pre-GA). Pre-GA products and features might have limited support, and changes to pre-GA products and features might not be compatible with other pre-GA versions. Pre-GA Offerings are covered by the Google Maps Platform Service Specific Terms. For more information, see the launch stage descriptions.

Every data layer in Google Earth's catalog comes with important information to help you understand its content, origin, and how it can be used.

Note: During the Experimental phase, the Google Earth data catalog features data covering the United States only.

Select platform:

Computer

Android

iOS

Access layer details

You can view a layer's metadata from the data catalog view.

Understand layer metadata

The layer detail view provides key information about the dataset. Look for the following sections:

• Title: The name of the data layer.
• Description: Detailed information about the data layer and its purpose. This may include links to additional resources.
• Last updated: The date when the data was last updated.
• Thumbnail image: A static image representing the data layer.

Data usage restrictions

All data layers available in the Google Earth data catalog are subject to specific usage policies and restrictions.

• Export restrictions: You cannot export, download, or copy data directly from data layers in Google Earth. This policy protects proprietary data and intellectual property. Projects can be shared with others using the Share button in at the top of the screen.

  Note: You can export your project to KML, but proprietary data layers are not included within the downloaded file.

• Privacy-sensitive data: Some data layers may have restrictions to protect privacy. For example, data might not be shown if there are too few data points within a boundary.

• Geopolitical considerations: Data availability and boundaries shown within Earth are subject to Google's geopolitical policies.

Note: During the Experimental phase, the data catalog contains data covering the United States only.

Understand how data layers change over time

Data layers in Google Earth are dynamic and can be updated, temporarily removed, or eventually deprecated. Understanding these changes helps you maintain accurate projects and anticipate data availability.

Automatically updated layers

When a data layer is updated (for example, new data is added or refreshed), your projects that include that layer will automatically update to the latest version.

• Notifications for updates: For layers with regular update cadences (such as monthly or annually), a badge may appear on the layer's title in the left-hand panel to indicate an update. This visual cue will disappear after a few views or after selecting the layer.
• View changelog: For some data layers, you may be able to view a changelog that details specific changes made with each update. Access this from the layer's detail view in the data catalog.

Important notes

• Not all data layers are available for all geographic regions.
• Data layers may have different levels of granularity, aggregation, or anonymization.