Google continues to integrate Gemini into its most popular services, including Google Maps . Today, the company announced that Google Maps is getting a new AI feature , ' Ask Maps ,' which allows users to ask ' complex, real-world questions ' with highly detailed, personalized answers.
In the past, Google Maps struggled with hyper-specific questions like 'where can I charge my phone without waiting in line for coffee' or 'where is the nearest public restroom that isn't completely disgusting'. But now, thanks to Gemini, all those weird, slightly awkward questions can be answered.
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How does Ask Maps work in Google Maps?
Ask Maps allows you to describe your plans via chat, including as much detail as the user wants. Gemini will analyze the query to provide as detailed an answer, often using personal details the user has provided through their previous interactions with Google Maps.
Google product manager Andrew Duchiused this example: 'I have some friends coming from Midtown East to meet me after work. Can you find us a place between the office and Midtown East that's vegetarian, has a cozy atmosphere, and a table for four at seven tonight?'
Using Gemini, Maps will then provide a series of examples, analyzing and photos user-submitted book a table for you with a single tap.
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"It's personalized for you and allows you to turn those plans into action," Duchi said. "Less scrolling, more walking."
Data from Google Maps
The answers provided by Gemini will be based solely on data from Google Maps and not on any information from other Google apps, such as Gmail. For personalized answers, the information will be based on previous searches on Maps or Google Search related to locations that users have saved in Maps (or places they have favorited or added to lists).
When asked if Google plans to allow businesses (like restaurants or hotels) to pay for preferential placement in AI-generated, Duchi declined to answer, saying he couldn't speculate on long-term commercialization plans. He did say, however, that for now, paid placements won't affect which locations appear in Ask Maps suggestions.
The feature will roll out this week in the US and India on Android and iOS devices, with desktop support planned for the near future.
See also: Google Maps quietly added a long-awaited feature for drivers
Additionally, Google is using Gemini to change the look of Maps itself. The company announced its new 'Immersive Navigation' feature, describing it as 'the biggest upgrade to the Google Maps navigation experience'.
