Google Maps is introducing Ask Maps, a new conversational feature powered by Gemini models that answers complex, real-world questions about places. It allows users to ask specific queries like where to charge a phone without waiting or find a public tennis court with lights, providing customized maps and personalized recommendations based on user preferences and Maps’ data from over 300 million places and 500 million contributors. Ask Maps helps plan trips with insider tips, clear directions, and easy booking or sharing options. It is currently rolling out in the U.S. and India on Android and iOS, with desktop support coming soon.
Ask Maps Features
- Conversational interface for complex, real-world questions.
- Personalized responses based on user history and preferences.
- Access to fresh, community-powered information.
- Ability to book reservations, save places, share plans, and navigate easily.
- Examples include finding charging spots, public tennis courts, or cozy vegan restaurants.
Immersive Navigation Upgrade
Google Maps also launches Immersive Navigation, the biggest navigation update in over a decade, offering a vivid 3D route view that reflects buildings, overpasses, and terrain. It highlights critical road details such as lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, and stop signs, using Gemini’s analysis of real-world imagery from Street View and aerial photos.
Immersive Navigation Features
- Broader route view with smart zooms and transparent buildings to prepare for upcoming turns and lane changes.
- More natural voice guidance that mimics a friend’s navigation style.
- Information on tradeoffs for alternate routes, including traffic, tolls, and real-time disruptions like construction and crashes, supported by over 10 million daily driver contributions.
- Destination previews with Street View, parking recommendations, and entrance details to ease the final stretch of the drive.
Immersive Navigation is rolling out in the U.S. and will expand to eligible iOS and Android devices, CarPlay, Android Auto, and cars with Google built-in over the coming months.
