I've only just noticed a June 3rd blog post from Googler Mark Ivey, suggesting some "conceivably useful" applications for Street View:

   1. Find parking before you get in the car.
   2. Find a store’s hours
   3. Check if you can pay by credit card (courtesy of Damon Kohler).
   4. Look up a phone number
   5. Thinking of moving? Check out the neighborhood...
   6. Can I sit while I wait for the bus?
   7. Will I be out of the rain while I wait for my bus?
   8. Should I bring loose change for the parking meter?

Marks' post:
http://zovirl.com/2007/06/03/street-view/

To those I will add:

   9. Where is a good place to meet up with others, near our destination?
   10. Does the area look like a safe enough place to wait around?
   11. What kinds of takeaway food will I be able to buy near there?
   12. Is there still a drinking fountain on the corner?
   13. What is the cost to park at the parking station?
   14. Is it (street/restaurant/cinema) likely to be crowded?
   15. What kind of clothes will everyone be wearing?

Also, to conduct any kind of statistical survey in a non-intrusive way (e.g. the council surveys litter levels).

And, if it could be real-time, questions like "Is that old table still for sale in the window of the antique shop?".

Yea, there would be a high number of applications if real-time...! ;)
(stalking 'd be a bad one...)

> 5. Thinking of moving? Check out the neighborhood...

I second that one...