InsideJapan News Network

Complaints over privacy have prompted Google to retake photographs for its Street View service in Japan.

The internet giant used a car with a camera mounted on the roof to take pictures of streets in 12 major Japanese cities, in order to give 360-degree views.

But concerns that the height of the camera means it can see into homes and gardens in the country have led to complaints over privacy being invaded.

And in response, Google has revealed that all the photographs will be retaken with the camera lowered.

In a statement, company product manager Keiichi Kawai said: "We admit that there were concerns about the service. People said we might have neglected the privacy issue. We took their opinions seriously and made careful considerations."

Last month, the UK's Information Commissioner ruled that although there is a risk of privacy invasion, the Street View service does not contravene the Data Protection Act.

Written by Andy Mackay


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