It’s no surprise to anyone at this point that Google includes its own AI in all of its tools. Well, now it’s time to Google Mapswhich integrates a more proactive and intelligent assistant within its navigation scheme.
The idea of Google with Gemini at the wheel is transform the user experience with the app a little. It aims to be more conversational, intuitive and confident than before. Something he’s a little closer to What would a person next to the pilot do to assist him. Gemini’s presence will be noted in various functions with this purpose in mind.
Voice interaction is now more natural
The most significant innovation is the ability to interact with Google Maps using only your voice, of course and with multiple steps. You will no longer need to take your eyes off the road to touch the screen. Thanks to Gemini you can perform complex searches with a simple phrase like “Is there an affordable restaurant with vegan options along my route?”.
The wizard will not only find the answer, but can chain actions: Find that restaurant, check parking in the area, then add the appointment to your calendar for 7 p.m.
Something that is also very useful for road safety you can report accidents on the road saying “There’s an accident” or “Watch out for that traffic jam”, keeping your hands on the wheel and concentrating on driving.
Goodbye to vague directions on the map
Furthermore, you can finally forget about generic instructions based only on traffic lights. Google Maps will use Gemini to enrich addresseshighlighting visible landmarks along your journey.
Using Street View data and its massive database of more than 250 million locations, the app will guide you with phrases like “turn right after the Thai Siam restaurant“or” go straight past the gas station. This level of visual context makes finding your way much easier and reduces the anxiety of wondering if you’re already past the intersection.
Proactive and preventative traffic alerts
Google Maps’ Gemini intelligence will work even when you don’t have an active route to follow. For example, Maps can send you proactive notifications about traffic changes in your areasuch as unexpected road closures or heavy traffic jams.
It’s like having a sensor that will alert you to problems before you find yourself trappedallowing you to plan alternatives in advance and saving time and frustration.
Lens has also been improved in Maps
As if that wasn’t enough, the Lens feature, now powered by Gemini, becomes a second pair of eyes during your journey. Pointing the phone camera, you will be able to identify nearby restaurants, cafes, shops or monuments.
Since then it has gone even beyond identification you can ask questions about what you see. Problems like “What is this place and why is it popular?“, or”What’s the atmosphere like inside?“ Gemini will respond to them based on information from the web and reviews, helping you make decisions instantly.
This interesting suite of features, which will gradually begin rolling out to US users firstwill give a new twist to Google Maps, transforming it into complete and conversational assistance. You’ll feel a little more like you’re interacting with an expert guide than with a simple app.
