I've spent the last few minutes trying to navigate EveryScape.com's new virtual search of Bev Hills (it's being launched in partnership with the city’s Conference & Visitors Bureau). It's a bit of a struggle - I keep driving against one-way traffic and can't seem to get inside any stores or restaurants. Then again I am a techno disaster area, so don’t go by me. EveryScape already has virtual scenes for SF, Philly and Washington, D.C. (they call it "the real world online"). L.A. will be available soon. Part of the model involves lining up businesses that would purchase special placement in these tours (going inside to check out dining rooms, hotel lobbies, etc.) But does that mean that other non-paying businesses would be left out? And if so, what good is the search? EveryScape is backed by some heavy hitters in the VC world: Draper Fisher Jurvetson, Draper Fisher New England, Draper Atlantic and LaunchPad Venture Group (the company received $7 million in the first quarter). As with any new technology, the question now is how to make money off of it.
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