Google Maps reinvents navigation with AI-powered ‘Ask Maps’

Google Maps just got a major upgrade that could make the world’s most popular navigation app even better.

The navigation app is introducing two big new features that can make its directions more informative and adaptable. Google is ‘‘fundamentally changing what a map can do’’ by using Gemini models to make navigation experiences more intuitive and even conversational, says a release from Google’s blog, The Keyword.

Here’s how Google has improved Maps to make it more useful for drivers:

• Google Maps’ new Ask Maps feature answers questions

Google is officially introducing Ask Maps, a feature that allows drivers to ask ‘‘complex, real-world questions a map could never answer before.’’ Ask Maps will appear on the Maps app as a button that users can tap to engage in informative conversations.

The Ask Maps feature can do everything from provide recommendations for stops along route to inform drivers about specific amenities offered at their destinations. 

Using the feature can optimize the travel experience because it cuts out the need for extra research. It also allows Gemini users to ask questions normally reserved for the AI assistant within the Maps app itself.

Results from Ask Maps are personalized based on locations you have saved or on places you’ve search for via the navigation app. Ultimately, this feature can make actions like finding parking, restrooms and attractions near your desired destination easier. 

Ask Maps is being rolled out now in the U.S. and India for iOS and Android.

• Google Maps’ Immersive Navigation feature transforms the user experience

The Keyword blog calls Immersive Navigation the app’s ‘‘biggest transformation of the navigation experience in over a decade.’’

This feature creates a ‘‘vivid 3D view that reflects the buildings, overpasses, and terrain around you.’’ It can also highlight crosswalks, lanes, stop signs and traffic lights to make the navigation experience more helpful to drivers.

This feature utilizes Gemini AI models to enhance spatial understanding of your route and the landmarks and potential obstacles along the way.

Immersive Navigation allows Maps users to drive more confidently with a deeper awareness of what they’ll encounter while getting to their destination. It can eliminate instances of second-guessing specific turn-by-turn directions thanks to a more detailed view and perspective.

Maps’ Immersive Navigation feature is currently being rolled out in the U.S. and availability will expand in the coming months.

Google Maps has become the go-to navigation app for over two billion users a month, says a blog post from The Keyword. It’s popular because the app uses accurate real-time data to provide useful directions whether you’re driving, biking or walking.

Maps also integrates other Google features and services like reviews so users can see information and opinions others are sharing regarding specific locations. Users can do everything from save their parking spot to share their real-time location with friends and family on a drive.

New Maps features like Ask Maps and Immersive Navigation are making the navigation app even more useful for drivers who rely on it daily.

Source: USA Today 
--Agencies