Google will integrate AI into Google Maps to make navigation even better. With Gemini integration in Google Maps, you’ll gain access to a smart co-passenger on your phone that can help you reach your destination easily.
Thanks to Gemini’s AI prowess, Google Maps can now proactively notify you of traffic disruptions. Or help find a fuel stop — all hands-free and through a natural conversation.
Gemini in Google Maps makes multi-step tasks faster
Google is deeply integrating Gemini into Google Maps to make multi-step tasks faster and easier. When driving, if you see an accident or flooding on the road, you can simply tell Google that you “see an accident” or “flooding,” and it will automatically report the disruption.
Even better, you can ask Gemini with Google Maps open to finalize a place for dinner and add the relevant entry to your calendar.
Google explains this feature with the following example: “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles? … What’s parking like there?” Followed by, “OK, let’s go there.” You can even ask, “Oh, by the way, can you also add a calendar event for soccer practice tomorrow for 5 p.m.?”
Gemini-powered navigation experience in Google Maps will roll out on Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
Google previously rolled out a handy Gemini-powered feature in Maps that can scan your screenshots and extract location details.
Landmark-assisted navigation directions
Using Gemini, Google Maps will ditch the vague “turn right in 500 feet” instructions with something more useful. It will use traffic lights, stop signs and landmarks like gas stations and buildings as reference. So, expect to hear more useful instructions like “turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant.”
Google Maps achieves this by enabling Gemini to analyze Street View images and detailed information of about 250 million places.
Landmark-based navigation in Google Maps is rolling out now on iOS and Android in the US.
Another useful upgrade coming to Google Maps with Gemini integration: proactive traffic alerts. Instead of finding yourself stuck in a terrible jam, Google Maps will automatically give you a heads up about road disruptions ahead.
Google is also bringing Gemini-powered Lens integration to Maps. Tap the camera icon in the Google Maps search bar and point it to a restaurant or bakery. You can then ask Gemini for more information about the place or the popular dishes available, etc.
Lens-powered Gemini integration in Google Maps starts rolling out later this month in the US on Android and iOS.
Rajesh has been closely following and writing about the latest happenings in the world of mobile for nearly a decade now. While he prefers Android, he does not deny the superiority of Apple’s products and ecosystem.
