Google Maps is Developing Its Own Intelligence Due to Gemini AI | Carscoops

      AI is transforming how we navigate, as Google Maps receives an intelligent upgrade with enhanced features and a more interactive assistant.

      Google is integrating Gemini into Maps, leading to more advanced navigation.

      Users will have the ability to ask questions and get responses in a conversational manner.

      Drivers will also receive improved notifications regarding turns and delays.

      On Monday night, as I was returning home from the airport, Google Maps provided a useful suggestion. Although it almost went unnoticed, the popular navigation app instructed me to turn left after the gas station.

      The feature was recently introduced quietly and marks the beginning of landmark-based navigation. As Google pointed out, while we often hear "turn right in 500 feet," estimating distances can be challenging. This can lead to users staring at their smartphones instead of focusing on where to turn.

      The company is addressing this by incorporating significant landmarks along the route. This feature includes gas stations, restaurants, and notable buildings that should be easily identifiable while driving.

      Powered by Gemini, this new capability analyzes information from 250 million locations and cross-references it with Street View images to “curate the most relevant landmarks viewable from the street.” This allows drivers to concentrate on the road, receiving instructions such as “turn right after the Thai Siam restaurant.”

      Gemini Enhances Maps and Navigation

      Although landmark-based navigation is a great addition, it’s only the beginning as Google Maps integrates Gemini to facilitate easier and more conversational navigation. As explained in a media briefing yesterday, users can simply say “Hey, Google” and ask any questions they like.

      This could include inquiries like “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route within a few miles?” or “What’s the parking situation like at my destination?” For the latter query, Gemini could find nearby parking garages and guide you to one.

      Users are not restricted to navigation questions; you can also inquire about your favorite team's last game performance or add appointments to your calendar using your voice. Gemini can also research restaurant information and share details about their most popular dishes.

      Google representatives described this technology as akin to having a “local expert” in your vehicle, combining Gemini's capabilities with Maps data and information from “reliable” web sources. The tech company also assured users they need not fear AI hallucinations.

      Gemini will enhance Google Maps for all users, making it easier to report traffic issues. For instance, drivers can state “I see an accident” or “There’s a slowdown.”

      Gemini in Navigation will be available for Google Maps on Android and iOS in the coming weeks, with an Android Auto launch “on the way.”

      Proactive Traffic Alerts

      Another exciting feature is proactive driving alerts. If you're driving around town, there’s a good chance you might not need Google Maps for directions since you are familiar with your route.

      Typically, this would leave drivers uninformed, but an update currently being rolled out will notify them of issues even when they’re not using navigation. If there’s a traffic jam or accident ahead, a notification will appear to alert you.

      Users can then click on the notification to learn more about the incident and receive a rough estimate of potential delays. This notification allows drivers to find alternate routes to avoid traffic and unexpected holdups.

      Lens Built with Gemini

      After exiting your vehicle, you can still utilize Gemini and Google Maps to explore your surroundings. By clicking on the camera icon in the search bar, you can identify businesses and famous landmarks and ask questions about them.

      Gemini can inform you why a restaurant is popular, including what they specialize in. Users can also ask “What’s the vibe inside?” to get a concise summary about the atmosphere.

      The Lens Built with Gemini feature will start rolling out later this month in the United States.

      While the updates are varied, they aim to make Google Maps more intelligent and effective. Users will also experience a more conversational and natural language interaction, resembling a dialogue with a friend.