Google adds Gemini to Google Maps
It was going to happen eventually.
Today, Google announced that it would be introducing Gemini AI capabilities into Google Maps in a variety of new ways. This should enable easier driving, and "makes your route more intuitive," Google says. This includes capabiliteis already baked into Gemini somewhat, and some new abilities.
One of the somewhat rehashed features is Ask Maps. Now, you can ask Gemini more in-depth questions about routes and locations to go like, "My phone is dying — where can I charge it without having to wait in a long line for coffee?" according to Google. While similar queries could be answered within the Gemini app previously, now, the questions asked can be more conversational and less direct. Gemini can take in more information like finding a coffee place that is not too busy, while also taking into account if it has chargers nearby. It could also corroborate this information with ratings of these places, though Google has not mentioned that directly yet.
Plus, it can give suggested places to stop based on feedback from the user, and other reviewers and users that recommend places. This is cool, but it will never be the same as asking a friend for where to go. AI can sift through human reviews, but it can't actually experience it itself, so it has no way of knowing what it is really like. Ask Maps is rolling out in the US and India now, with a desktop version coming soon, says Google.
The biggest update, however, is with Immersive Navigation. This creates 3D maps that are more realistic and have interactive features, like transparent buildings to be able to see the upcoming tricky turn, Google says. These 3D maps are more consistent with the actual world around you, since they update in real-time to match your surroundings. This includes updates to the voice navigation, and it is supposed to be more "like a friend navigating with you." Who knows if this is actually true, since, again, nothing can replace real human voice. Immersive Navigation will roll out today in the US on iPhones and select Android phones, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
This new Gemini in Google Maps is interesting, but not always necessary and it is still uncertain how far AI will go. We will have to wait and see what Google does soon.
