Google Maps Adds New AI Features for Easier Navigation and Local ...

Bengaluru: Google Maps is rolling out AI-powered features in the U.S. that promise to make getting around and finding new spots simpler. Powered by Google’s Gemini AI model, the updates let users ask questions like “things to do with friends at night” and get tailored suggestions, such as live music or unique bars. Users can also see summaries of others’ reviews and ask specific follow-up questions, like if a place has outdoor seating.

The navigation updates aim to ease driving in complex areas, showing the right lane to be in, as well as crosswalks, road signs, and landmarks along the route. Once at a destination, Maps will now suggest nearby parking, help users save their parking spot, and provide walking directions to the entrance, even with Street View or AR options.

These updates, arriving this week on Android and iOS, also add tools to report weather disruptions like floods and low visibility on the road. With these changes, Google aims to keep Maps competitive in a growing navigation market.