Google Maps is getting a Gemini infusion. Google’s AI assistant will power what the company bills as “the first hands-free, conversational driving experience”. According to Google, this will feel like “having a knowledgeable friend in the passenger seat who can confidently help you get where you’re going”.
No one ever accused AI chatbots of lacking confidence, the problem is how trustworthy what they say is, and of course Google is staying mum about that. Anyway, you can ask Gemini anything you want while navigating with Google Maps.
Even multi-step queries should work fine. Gemini can also do other things like adding an event to your calendar – well, your Google Calendar at least. You can even report traffic disruptions with your voice. This feature will roll out “in the coming weeks” on Android and iOS.
Interestingly, the directions are getting a Gemini-powered upgrade too, and they will be using landmarks to guide you – for example, “turn right after the Thai Siam restaurant”. The landmarks that will be used will also be highlighted on your map as you approach each of them. This feature is rolling out now on Android and iOS in the US.
Even if you’re not navigating anywhere, Google Maps will give you a heads up about standstill traffic, proactively notifying you of disruptions on the road ahead. These alerts are rolling out now in the US on Android.
Finally, you can tap the camera in the search bar in Google Maps and hold up your phone to identify places – restaurants, cafes, shops, or famous landmarks in your view. When you see pins you can tap the mic to ask questions about each place, “like you would a friend”.
You’ll receive the answers you need thanks to “the powerful combination of Gemini capabilities and Google Maps’ understanding of places around the world”, the company says. This new Lens feature is “gradually” rolling out “later this month” in the US on both Android and iOS.
