Google Maps is rolling out new, AI-powered features in the U.S., thanks to an integration with Gemini, Google’s advanced generative AI model.
Announced Thursday, the updates aim to help users discover new places, streamline navigation, and answer questions about various locations, giving Google Maps a competitive edge over rivals like Apple Maps.
The Gemini update enables users to interact with Maps more conversationally.
For example, users can ask for ideas on activities with specific search terms like “things to do with friends at night,” prompting Gemini to provide tailored suggestions—anything from live music venues to hidden speakeasies.
Each recommendation comes with a summary reflecting user opinions about the location. Gemini can even address follow-up questions, such as whether a venue offers outdoor seating.
This AI integration is also expected to influence Google’s Search platform, where features like AI-powered review summaries and personalized queries about locations will soon appear.
On the navigation front, Google Maps is enhancing the driving experience with advanced lane guidance, which highlights which lane drivers should be in, reducing last-minute lane changes.
Updated visuals will clearly show lanes, crosswalks, and road signs, especially useful for complex roadways with multiple lanes and exits.
The update also introduces new trip-planning options. Before starting a journey, users can see popular landmarks, scenic spots, and dining options along their route.
Upon arrival, Google Maps will display nearby parking options and send a reminder to save the parking location.
Walking directions from the parking spot to the destination entrance, complete with Street View or augmented reality (AR) navigation, are also included.
Additionally, Maps will now allow users to report and view weather-related road disruptions, including areas affected by floods, poor visibility, or unplowed snow.
Google Maps’ Immersive View, a feature that creates realistic 3D models of destinations, is expanding from major cities to 150 locations globally, including Brussels, Kyoto, and Frankfurt.
Finally, Gemini’s capabilities are also being tested on Google’s Waze app.
A voice-activated feature will allow Waze users to report incidents hands-free, adding to Google’s efforts to make real-time navigation safer and more intuitive.
These updates are rolling out to Android and iOS devices this week across the U.S., setting the stage for a more interactive, AI-enhanced experience on Google Maps.
