Google Maps is getting smarter with a host of new AI-powered features designed to make your navigation experience even better. These updates, powered by Google’s AI platform, Gemini, are aimed at making your trips more efficient and enjoyable. While some features are available today, others will roll out in the coming weeks. Here’s a breakdown of the new additions:
Let Gemini Guide You
Instead of searching for specific destinations, Google now lets you ask its AI chatbot, Gemini, for activity suggestions. Whether you’re looking for “fun fall activities,” “interactive date ideas,” or “relaxing Sunday activities,” Gemini can provide tailored recommendations directly within Google Maps. This feature launches today.
Summarized Reviews via Gemini
Google is now using Gemini to summarize reviews for you. Rather than sifting through countless reviews to decide whether a place is worth visiting, you can rely on the AI to give you a concise summary. You can still view the original reviews if you want more details. This feature is available starting today.
Explore More Along Your Route
Google is making it easier to discover interesting stops while navigating. When you swipe up on your route preview, you’ll see suggestions like “charming local cafes” or “quirky roadside attractions.” If something catches your eye, you can add it to your route. This feature also launches today.
Ask Gemini About Your Destination
You can now ask Gemini specific questions about your destination, such as “Do I need a reservation?” or “What’s the parking situation?” This feature will be available in Maps today and in Google Search in the coming months.
Expanded Immersive View
Google’s Immersive View, which creates a 3D representation of cities from street view images, is expanding to more than 100 cities, with plans to reach 150 by the end of the year. The feature now includes a route view to highlight important details like parking, bike lanes, and tricky driving sections. This new Immersive View feature will be available on November 11. Additionally, Google is adding lane guidance to directions to help you stay in the correct lane, reducing last-minute lane changes. This will be available next week.
Report Hazards on Waze with Your Voice
While this update isn’t directly related to Google Maps, Google owns Waze, so it’s worth mentioning. Waze now lets users report hazards using voice commands, making it safer for drivers who need to report something without interacting with their phones. The feature is in beta and available in English today. Google Maps users will also be able to report weather disruptions, such as flooded or low-visibility roads, starting next week in the US, India, Canada, and Australia.
What to Do Once You Arrive
Google is introducing new features for when you reach your destination. Maps will highlight available parking spots and provide directions on how to reach your destination from where you parked. You’ll also see business hours to know if a place is open when you arrive. This feature will begin rolling out next week.
