Google Maps is getting several new artificial intelligence (AI) features powered by Gemini. Announced on Thursday, these features aim to provide more relevant information during navigation and display curated prompts that users can check out to learn more about the area and what they can do there. Additionally, Immersive View, which shows nearby structures as well as weather while planning a trip, is also being expanded to 150 cities around the world. These features are currently available in the US, and are expected to be made available in more regions in the future.
Google Maps gets new Gemini AI-powered features
In a blog post, the Mountain View-based tech giant explained in detail about the new features coming to Google Maps. Google highlighted that today AI helps the company make more than 100 million updates to Maps every day, allowing users to see the latest information on the go.
The first new feature is named Inspirations. Users can now ask Google Maps about “things to do” in an area, and using the Gemini AI model, it can gather the most relevant information. For example, users can ask “things to do with friends at night,” and Maps will show locations with live music, special events, and more. These locations are shown as individual cards, and if users have specific questions about locations such as whether it’s wheelchair accessible and whether it’s kid-friendly, they can ask Maps. And can get relevant feedback.
Google said the feature will roll out to users on Android and iOS in the US this week. A similar feature will also be added to Search, with AI-powered review summaries and the ability to ask detailed questions about places.
Navigation is also being upgraded by Google. Maps will now show lanes, crosswalks, and road signs on the map to help users better navigate unfamiliar routes. It will also show which lane the vehicle should be in to avoid last minute merging hassles. To make trips more enjoyable, users can tap on this while planning a trip add stop And see the top landmarks, attractions and dining options on the selected route. The advanced navigation is being implemented in 30 metro areas and will be expanded in the future.
Users will also be able to view and report weather-related disruptions such as flooded roads, low visibility and unplowed roads. Additionally, the arrival guidance feature will now show nearby parking spots and remind users to save their parking so they don’t forget their vehicle’s location. After parking the navigation system will automatically show walking directions from the car to the entrance.
Immersive View, the new AI experience that lets users see routes as they would appear in real life, is also getting an update. Now it will show the weather and traffic conditions on the day and time the user is planning to travel. This feature is now being expanded to 150 cities globally. The immersive view for routes will also show where to park and if there are any complex turns coming up.
The feature is rolling out this week on Android and iOS, where an immersive view is available for routes.
