The Yellow Pages have gone virtual, in terms of mapping technology at least. Late last month, Microsoft Canada and the Yellow Pages Group (YPG) announced that the innovative imaging and location capabilities of Microsoft Virtual Earth mapping software is now available on YellowPages.ca, Canada’s leading online directory.

The addition of Virtual Earth technology to YellowPages.ca will not only provide a far richer user experience to YPG’s over seven million users, it will also allow YellowPages.ca users to have interactive maps featuring up-to-date location data, driving directions, high-resolution satellite and aerial images, as well as the ability to view map results in photo-realistic 3D views.

According to Jean-Pascal Lion, YPG Vice President of Marketing:

“We needed a mapping solution that was easy-to-use and offered enhanced functionalities for our users, which in turn is beneficial to our advertisers. It also had to be reliable enough to accommodate our business growth plans. After reviewing several mapping services, it was clear that Microsoft Virtual Earth could meet our criteria.

“In today’s world of online services, people want to find information faster and more easily, but they also demand rich and engaging user experiences. By working with Microsoft technology partner and Virtual Earth experts Infusion Development, YPG is able to deliver a better experience to its users. The innovative Virtual Earth mapping platform provides added value to the YellowPages.ca site,” added Mark Relph, Microsoft Canada’s Vice President of Development and Platform.