Google Maps has reached another milestone and benefits from three major updates, including those powered by its Gemini AI model. According to the company, Maps is now used by more than 2 billion people every month. Google CEO Sundar Pichai shared an article on X sharing the latest information.
“Exciting week for @GoogleMaps. Reach the 2 billion monthly user mark and you can now ask Maps more complex questions, thanks to Gemini’s creation, reasoning and synthesis capabilities, based on our knowledge of more than 250 million places around the world “, he said in an article on X.
“Using AI to analyze billions of images, along with data from local partners and our community, we are able to make more than 100 million map updates every day. So whether you’re traveling across the world or across town, you see the most up-to-date information possible,” Google Maps said.
Three features coming to Google Maps
Google also announced integrating its powerful Gemini AI models in Maps, allowing users to get more personalized recommendations, explore routes in more detail, and receive answers to complex questions about their surroundings.
Enhanced exploration and discovery with Gemini
With Gemini, users can now ask open-ended questions on Maps such as “things to do with friends in the evening” and receive personalized recommendations tailored to their preferences. AI can also summarize reviews, providing a quick overview of what others like about a location.
Additionally, users can ask detailed questions about specific locations, such as whether they offer outdoor seating or have a quiet atmosphere, and receive instant responses. Google says these capabilities are powered by Gemini’s advanced capabilities combined with Google’s database of over 250 million locations and insights from the Maps community.
These features are starting to roll out in the US on Android and iOS this week, and similar experiences will be coming in the coming months to Search.
Navigation feature updates
Google Maps is also introducing a major update to its navigation features, aimed at making driving easier and more intuitive. Users can now explore points of interest along their route before starting their trip, including points of interest, attractions and restaurants.
Another feature aimed at improving navigation is information on clearer visuals of lanes, pedestrian crossings and traffic signs. This will help drivers anticipate upcoming maneuvers or turns and avoid last-minute lane changes that usually cause traffic jams. The update also includes the ability to see and report weather-related disruptions, such as flooded roads or low visibility conditions.
Third, arrival guidance has also been improved, with features such as highlighted parking lots, parking reminders, and walking directions from the car to the final destination. Users can even access Street View or AR walking navigation to quickly orient themselves upon arrival.
These features will roll out globally to Android and iOS this week. The enhanced navigation will begin rolling out next month on Android and iOS in more than 30 metro areas.
Immersive View expands to more cities
Immersive View, which provides AI-powered 3D visualizations of locations and routes, is expanding to 150 cities worldwide. New location categories, such as college campuses, are also added, giving users a unique way to explore and discover locations virtually.
