Google Maps rolls out Gemini-powered suggestions and smarter driving tools

Google Maps introduces AI-powered features with Gemini, enhancing user experience through personalised suggestions and improved navigation tools.

In Short

• Google Maps now uses Gemini AI to offer personalised suggestions for activities and places based on user questions
• Enhanced navigation will guide drivers with clearer lane markers, crosswalks, and road signs, reducing confusion on complex routes
• Immersive View expands to 150 cities, offering realistic views of popular places and routes, including real-time weather and traffic forecasts

Google Maps, used by over 2 billion people each month, is getting smarter and more helpful with new AI-driven features that aim to make navigating, planning, and exploring easier than ever. Using AI models called Gemini, these updates help users find unique places, explore routes, and navigate with clearer directions. Here’s a closer look at what’s coming to Maps.

With the help of Gemini, Google Maps now provides curated suggestions based on what users might enjoy. For instance, if you’re planning an outing, you can simply ask Maps for “things to do with friends at night,” and it will suggest activities like live music venues or interesting cafes nearby. This feature takes into account real user reviews, making it easy to see what people appreciate about a place without having to dig through multiple reviews.

This update allows users to ask specific questions about places, like whether they offer outdoor seating or have a relaxed vibe. All of this is possible because of Gemini’s ability to analyse and summarise large amounts of information, making it convenient for users looking for quick recommendations. This feature is already rolling out in the U.S. on both Android and iOS, with plans to expand to Google Search soon.

Enhanced driving experience

For drivers, Google Maps is launching several new tools to make driving easier and safer. One of the most useful updates is the ability to “add stops” to your route, allowing users to explore nearby attractions, restaurants, or scenic spots along the way. This feature is designed to make road trips and everyday commutes more enjoyable by helping you discover interesting places without leaving your planned route.

In addition, navigation on Maps is getting smarter with clearer lane guidance, showing which lane you should be in to avoid any last-minute surprises. This feature will be especially useful in complex areas with multiple lanes and exits. Additionally, Maps now allows users to report and view weather-related issues along their route, such as flooded or icy roads, helping drivers make safer choices, especially in winter.

Expanding immersive view to more locations

Google Maps’ Immersive View, which gives a 3D look at locations with real-time weather and traffic updates, is also expanding. Now available in 150 cities, including Brussels and Kyoto, it allows users to get a sense of what a place will look like before visiting. For example, users can view stadiums, parks, or even college campuses in detail, making it easier to plan trips or explore new areas.

The latest update also brings more useful details to Immersive View for routes, highlighting nearby parking areas and tricky turns, making it easier to navigate unfamiliar places confidently.These updates mark another step forward in Google Maps’ evolution, making it a more intuitive tool for both everyday tasks and special outings.