Google brings Gemini to Maps, here’s everything it can do | Infinium-tech

Google Maps is getting a Gemini infusion. Google’s AI assistant will power what the company bills as “the first hands-free, conversational driving experience.” According to Google, it will feel like “there is a knowledgeable friend in the passenger seat who can confidently help you get where you’re going”.

No one ever accused AI chatbots of lacking confidence, the problem is how reliable what they say is, and of course Google is silent about this. Anyway, you can ask a Gemini anything while you navigate with Google Maps.

Even multi-step queries will work properly. Geminis can also do other things like add an event to your calendar – well, at least your Google Calendar. You can also report traffic disruptions with your voice. The feature will be rolling out to Android and iOS “in the coming weeks.”

Interestingly, Directions are also getting a Gemini-powered upgrade, and they’ll use landmarks to guide you – for example, “Turn right after Thai Siam Restaurant”. The landmarks in use will also be highlighted on your map as you approach each of them. The feature is now available on Android and iOS in the US.

Even if you’re not navigating anywhere, Google Maps will notify you of stopped traffic, and proactively notify you about disruptions on the road ahead. These alerts are now being released on Android in the US.

Finally, you can tap the camera in the search bar in Google Maps and hold your phone up to identify places in your view – restaurants, cafes, shops, or famous landmarks. When you see a Pin you can tap the mic to ask questions about each location, “like you would ask a friend”.

You’ll get the answers you need thanks to “the powerful combination of Gemini capabilities and Google Maps’ understanding of locations around the world,” the company says. This new Lens feature is rolling out gradually “later this month” on both Android and iOS in the US.

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