Copyright Interesting Engineering
Google Maps is getting a major AI boost with Gemini integration, introducing a smarter, hands-free driving experience. The new feature lets users talk naturally to Maps while keeping their eyes on the road. Google describes it as “like having a knowledgeable friend in the passenger seat who can confidently help you get where you’re going.” Gemini is now built into Google Maps to make everyday driving tasks faster and easier. Users can ask the assistant to find places along their route, locate EV chargers or share their ETA on Android without touching the screen. Google says, “That means it’s even simpler to find places along your route, check for available EV chargers or on Android, share your ETA with friends. No fumbling required — now you can just ask.” The assistant can handle more complex requests too. You can ask, “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles?” and follow it up with “What’s parking like there?” or “OK, let’s go there.” Gemini can even add reminders or events directly to your Calendar if you give permission. For example, you can say, “Oh, by the way, can you also add a calendar event for soccer practice tomorrow for 5 p.m.?” Drivers can also ask about popular dishes at a restaurant or get news updates while on the move. Reporting road incidents is now easier as well. Users can say, “I see an accident,” or “Looks like there’s flooding ahead” to alert others in real time. Gemini in navigation will begin rolling out in the coming weeks on Android and iOS, with Android Auto support coming soon. Real-world landmarks for guidance Google Maps is also changing how it gives directions by including real-world landmarks. Instead of hearing “turn right in 500 feet,” users will now get more natural prompts such as “turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant.” The landmark will appear highlighted on the screen as drivers approach. According to Google, Gemini analyzes data on 250 million places and compares it with Street View images to find the most visible and useful landmarks. This helps make turn-by-turn directions easier to follow. The landmark-based navigation update is now rolling out to Android and iOS users in the United States. Traffic alerts and Lens upgrades Another new feature will notify drivers about traffic slowdowns even if they are not actively navigating. Google Maps can now send proactive alerts about closures or congestion on the road ahead. The feature is already available for Android users in the United States. Gemini is also enhancing Lens in Maps. Users can open the camera in the search bar and point it at restaurants, cafes, or landmarks to identify them. When pins appear, they can tap the microphone and ask questions such as “What is this place and why is it popular?” or “What’s the vibe inside?” Google explains, “The powerful combination of Gemini capabilities and Google Maps’ understanding of places around the world gets you the answers you need, helping you decide in a moment if a spot is worth the wait.” Lens built with Gemini will roll out gradually later this month in the United States on both Android and iOS. The Gemini upgrade marks one of Google Maps’ biggest steps toward a fully conversational, AI-driven navigation system designed to make travel simpler and more intuitive.
