Google Maps released a new feature where you can view the current temperature at different points on the map.  It is similar to what you see on a television newscast.

I first heard about it this morning on ABC7News.  They showed a quick clip about it, and my first thought was they could just use the feature for weather reports.

Before I finished my thought, the newscast transitioned to a three-shot introducing the weather segment.  The weatherman  started off trying to downplay the feature, saying that he was still needed to provide a forecast for the next seven days, which he assumed people were still interested in.

It was a humorous transition, but there was definitely a thought that was considered at least one view.  Could this be pivotal?

The two are in different markets and will probably never affect each other.  Television viewers will still seek a real human to incorrectly forecast the weather.  Web users will now use the weather layer to plan their travels, adding another tool to their arsenal.

But it’s always something to remember.  Technology is our friend, but can be evil too.