The Google Maps app is getting one of its biggest updates in ten years. Google is introducing two big news: AI function Ask Maps based on the Gemini AI model and a completely new navigation mode called Immersive Navigation.
The goal of this update is to make navigation smarter and more useful in real-world situations, with the help of artificial intelligence and advanced 3D visualization of the environment.
Gemini AI in the Google Maps app
The new Ask Maps feature introduces an in-app chat interface that allows users to ask complex questions and receive personalized recommendations.
The user can simply describe what he is looking for, for example a restaurant for dinner with friends in a certain part of town. Gemini then analyzes data from reviews, photos and previous user searches to suggest suitable locations.
If a suggestion suits the user, it is possible to immediately book a restaurant, save the location in the list of places or share the recommendation with friends. Navigation to the selected location will start directly from the search results.
The feature is currently being rolled out in the US and India on Android and iOS devices, while the desktop version will receive support at a later date.
Immersive Navigation brings a realistic 3D view of the road
Another big novelty is Immersive Navigation, a completely redesigned navigation mode that uses a three-dimensional view of the environment.
Instead of a classic 2D map, the application shows a realistic 3D view of the road with clearly marked lanes, pedestrian crossings, traffic lights and other important traffic elements.
This system uses data from Google Street View and satellite images to make the route display as accurate and as close to the real environment as possible.
Google has also improved voice navigation to sound more natural, almost as if a passenger is giving directions while driving.
The app will now also show information about alternative routes, including the difference between a faster toll route or a longer route with less traffic. The system uses data sent by millions of drivers every day, and according to Google, users report more than 10 million pieces of information about road conditions every day.
Immersive Navigation is currently being rolled out in the US, while in the coming months support will come to Android and iOS devices, as well as Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and cars with an integrated Google system, reports Android Headlines.