The idea of using Gemini within Google Maps isn’t all that new. The app already boasts Ask Maps, a Gemini-powered feature that lets users ask questions about trips and nearby places. However, unlike other native Google apps, Maps doesn’t boast too many user-facing AI-powered goodies.
We’ve known that that’s poised to change for some time now, and it finally feels relieving to get official confirmation directly from Google.
The tech giant, in a new blog post, detailed and gave us our first proper look at four new updates coming to Maps.
Gemini to Google Maps, this time for real
Described as having a knowledgeable friend in the passenger seat, employing Gemini as your hands-free Google Maps assistant means it will soon be easier to find places, landmarks, and even EV chargers along your routes.
With the assistant integrated, you should be able to get multistep task help for queries like “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles? … What’s parking like there? Oh, by the way, can you also add a calendar event for soccer practice tomorrow for 5 p.m.?”
The latter, for reference, is only possible if you’ve given Gemini explicit permission to connect with your Calendar.
Elsewhere, the integration should also make reporting traffic disruptions easier with verbal prompts like:
- “I see an accident.”
- “Looks like there’s flooding ahead.”
- “Watch out for that slowdown.”
It’s worth noting that the integration isn’t available just yet. However, Google did confirm that the AI-powered navigation experience will begin rolling out in the coming weeks on both Android and iOS.
More landmarks to help you understand your route better
We’ve all gotten used to Maps telling us to “turn right in 500 feet,” but what if the app could be just a little bit more descriptive? That’s exactly what Google seems to be rolling out now.
In addition to traffic lights and stop signs, Google Maps will now start highlighting landmarks like gas stations, restaurants and easy-to-spot buildings along your route.
You’ll hear clear directions like ‘turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant,’ and see it highlighted on your map as you approach.
Landmark-based navigation is rolling out now on Android and iOS, but only in the US.
Proactive traffic alerts
Google Maps knows the routes that you frequent. Especially when you’re already on a trip, it knows the roads you will take. Knowing that information, it can now give you proactive notifications about disruptions on the road, including alers about unexpected closures, heavy traffic jams, accidents, and more.
Proactive alerts are rolling out now in the US, but only on Android.
Explore with Lens
Rolling out later this month, Lens, built with Gemini, can help you explore your surroundings directly within Google Maps.
“Have you ever wanted to know what the highly rated dishes are at a restaurant, or if that bakery you just passed carries French butter croissants? Now you can have a quick conversation with Google Maps to find out,” wrote the tech giant.
Users will be able to access Lens within Maps and point their phone up to identify places and ask questions about them.
Lens built with Gemini will roll out later this month on Android and iOS in the US.
