Google Maps is about to revolutionize your navigation experience with the integration of Gemini, an advanced AI assistant, and the introduction of landmark-based directions. These updates promise to make your app smarter, more intuitive, and easier to use whether you’re driving, cycling, walking, or using public transit.
Discover Gemini on Google Maps
Gemini is set to replace Google Assistant within Google Maps, enhancing voice interaction and navigation controls. To check if your Google Maps app includes Gemini, look at the search bar's microphone icon: a blue sparkle Gemini icon inside a circle means you're ready to explore these new features.
Activated by saying "Hey Google," Gemini can assist you with a wide range of tasks during navigation:
- Navigation Commands:
- “Navigate home”
- “Stop navigating”
- “Add stop”
- “Mute guidance”
- “Avoid tolls”
- “Show alternative routes”
- Route Information:
- “What’s my next turn?”
- “When will I arrive?”
- “What’s the weather like at my destination?”
- “What’s my next stop?”
- Issue Reporting:
- “There’s traffic on the road.”
- “There’s construction up ahead.”
- “There’s a car breakdown causing congestion.”
- Searching & Place Info:
- Search along your route or near your destination – e.g., “Find me a cafe near my destination that serves tiramisu.”
- Refine search results and add stops efficiently
- Ask about places or landmarks – e.g., “When does {Place Name} close?” or “What’s the most popular dish on the menu?”
- Communication:
- “Call Mom.”
- “Send a text to Larry” or “Send an SMS to Sergey.”
- Entertainment:
- “Play some jazz”
- “Stop playing music.”
- Integrations with Other Apps:
- “Summarize my latest emails.”
- “When’s my next meeting?”
- “Play music with Spotify.”
Google released a video showcasing how Gemini can seamlessly assist while navigating. For instance, questions like “What’s parking like?” at a restaurant can now be easily answered during your drive.
Landmark-Based Navigation Arrives
One significant upgrade inspired by Apple Maps is the introduction of landmark-based navigation. Instead of relying solely on distance, Google Maps will soon guide you using visible landmarks, such as “Turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant,” enhancing clarity and ease of use.
This AI-generated feature filters landmarks with poor visibility to ensure directions use prominent, easily recognized locations, improving driving confidence and reducing confusion.
Availability and Upcoming Updates
Google announced Gemini features for Maps would roll out in early November for Android and iOS devices. However, as of now, many users including those with Pixel 6 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max on beta versions have yet to receive the update.
Are You Excited About Landmark-Based Navigation?
Google Maps remains the default navigation app on Android devices. For iPhone users interested in trying these new features, Google Maps is available alongside Apple Maps and can be downloaded from the App Store here.
