Apple Non-Existent in MSN Virtual Earth

Anyone who's been following technology likely already knows that the relationship between Microsoft and Apple is strained at best. However, with the beta release of MSN Virtual Earth, it now appears that Microsoft would like to act like Apple doesn't even exist.

Word spread around the Internet Monday night that whatever image Microsoft is using for 1 Infinite Loop, it sure wasn't of the sprawling 11-building complex that exists today.

What is pictured instead is a dusty parking lot with what appears to be some kind of large building, possibly a warehouse.

MSN Virtual Earth went live in beta form on Monday and allows users to view satellite imagery, as well as traditional map locations, and perform local search functions based on the area in focus.

Microsoft has blamed the error on old photographs from 1991, even though its satelite images show copyrights of 2004 and 2005. Viewing Apple's headquarters on Google Maps shows the campus correctly.

Google and Microsoft use the same sources for their images.