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Google has announced the launch of the largest navigation update to Google Maps in recent years. The centerpiece of the changes is new AI capabilities powered by Gemini models. Among the key innovations is the Ask Maps feature, which offers an in-app experience similar to that of an AI assistant.
Ask Maps allows users to ask complex questions in natural language related to real-life situations and receive personalized answers based on up-to-date data. The system generates results based on Google‘s vast database of over 300 million locations, as well as feedback from more than 500 million users. Answers can include photos, route visualization, and additional information about the locations. For example, a user can ask: “My phone is almost dead – where can I recharge it without standing in a long line for coffee?”
Google notes that the new AI assistant adapts the results to a specific user. It takes into account saved locations in Google Maps and previous search queries. For example, when searching for restaurants, the system can focus on individual food preferences. Users can immediately make restaurant reservations, add suggested places to lists, or share them with others.
The new feature is similar to the Ask Photos tool that was previously introduced in the Google Photos app. Ask Maps expands the list of AI capabilities of Google Maps, which already includes Gemini integration for pedestrian navigation and route building. The new feature is currently being gradually rolled out to Android and iOS users in the US and India. In the future, it will also be available in the web version.
For a long time, users have been complaining about one of the problems with Google Maps – the difficulty of distinguishing between multi-level roads, including overpasses and roads under them. Now Google is updating the navigation experience with a new feature called Immersive Navigation, which builds on the capabilities of the previously introduced Immersive View mode.
The latest update brings a redesigned three-dimensional view of maps. Important road elements, including lanes, pedestrian crossings and terrain features, are now more clearly displayed in 3D mode. Voice guidance has also been updated to make it more natural and clear. In addition, buildings can become translucent while driving to make it easier for the driver to navigate difficult turns or lane changes.
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When offering alternative routes, the service now also explains the difference between them. For example, the system can inform you that one route is longer but less busy, while the other is faster but requires a fare. In addition, Google will use updates from the user community to report traffic jams or other problems on the road in real time.
Immersive Navigation also allows you to preview your destination and its surroundings using Street View. The system can tell you exactly where the main entrance to the building is located and which side of the road is the best to approach. In addition, users will receive recommendations on available parking spaces.
Google reported that Immersive Navigation has already started to appear in the United States. Over the coming months, the feature will be gradually expanded to compatible Android and iOS devices, as well as CarPlay, Android Auto, and cars with built-in Google services.
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