Google has introduced several new features across Search, Maps, Lens, and Gemini to enhance vacation planning.
AI Overviews in Search
AI Overviews in Search provide users with day-by-day itineraries for destinations, including regions and countries. By searching for specific interests, such as “create an itinerary for Costa Rica with a focus on nature,” users receive tailored recommendations for activities and dining. This feature allows users to view photos, reviews, and maps, and share or save itineraries via Google Docs or Maps. It is currently available for English queries in the U.S. on both mobile and desktop.
Hotel Price Tracking
Google now offers hotel price tracking similar to its flight alerts. Users can track hotel prices for specific dates and destinations on google.com/hotels. By enabling the price-tracking option, users receive email notifications when prices drop significantly. This feature is launching globally on mobile and desktop.
Screenshot Integration in Google Maps
Google Maps now allows users to save locations from screenshots directly into a “Screenshots” list. By turning on this feature, users can easily keep track of places they want to visit, which will appear on the map for easy sharing with travel companions. This feature is rolling out in the U.S. for iOS users, with Android availability coming soon.
Travel Inspiration with Gemini
Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, helps users brainstorm travel ideas and find relevant information. Users can ask for flight deals or budget travel tips. The new Gems feature allows users to create personalized AI travel planners, providing tailored advice on destinations, dining, and packing. Gems are available at no cost, and users can create them through the “Gems manager.”
Lens as a Tour Guide
Google Lens enhances travel experiences by providing information about surroundings. Users can point their camera at objects and ask questions to receive AI-generated insights. Lens also offers translation capabilities for various texts, making it useful for navigating foreign environments. AI Overviews in Lens are currently available for English queries and will soon expand to additional languages.
