Google Maps was rumored to be adding pop-up ads during navigation, but Google has confirmed this is not the case. The confusion arose from "Promoted Pins," which have been part of Google Maps for some time.

These pins show relevant ads for businesses along a user's route, such as gas stations and restaurants. They do not pop up on their own and only expand if tapped, disappearing quickly to avoid driver distraction.

Anthony Higman, initially reported seeing what he thought was a new ad format that suggested a detour to a sponsored location. However,Ginny from AdsLiaison clarified that this was likely due to an accidental screen touch or a glitch. She explained:

Promoted pins in navigation are not new - they let people see relevant ads for businesses like gas stations, restaurants, and stores along their route. To avoid driver distraction, these ads do not pop up, expand only if they’re tapped on, and disappear quickly after a short time.

The promoted pin he saw was for a convenience store chain, "Royal Farms," and it appeared as he drove near Atlantic City. The ad was clearly marked as sponsored and included a prominent cancel button.