In California, Google is rolling out a significant update for its Maps application: the integration of artificial intelligence Gemini. This addition transforms location searches into an intuitive and highly personalized conversation.
Since the start of 2024, Google engineers have been working on merging their powerful AI, Gemini, with existing services. Now it’s Google Maps, the app with over 250 million listed locations, that benefits from this upgrade. The goal is to make discovering places as easy as chatting with a friend. The deployment, initially limited to the United States on Android and iOS, signifies a potential revolution in our navigation habits.
A conversational AI for complex searches
Gone are the days of rigid keywords. With Gemini, you can now ask complex and natural questions. Looking for “vintage vibe places in San Francisco” for a shopping trip? Maps doesn’t just list stores anymore.
Now, it analyzes photos, reviews, and descriptions to suggest thrift stores, record shops, and flea markets that fit your desired “vibe.” The AI organizes the results by categories and provides summary reviews to justify its suggestions.
This analytical capability allows for much more precise and spontaneous queries. If it starts raining, just ask “activities to do when it rains,” and Gemini will suggest nearby cinemas, museums, or game rooms.
An intuitive exploration of the world
The strength of Gemini lies in its ability to understand context and follow-up questions. After finding your vintage shop, you can ask, “And what about lunch?” and the app will recommend nearby restaurants that match the same retro vibe, like an old-fashioned diner.
This new feature leverages the wealth of data from Google Maps and contributions from its community of over 300 million users. The AI synthesizes this vast information to provide relevant and reliable recommendations, turning a simple map into a true smart travel guide.
A new solution for entirely reinvented navigation?
The integration of Gemini goes beyond location searches. Ultimately, the AI will replace Google Assistant for voice commands during navigation. It will be possible to verbally modify a route to avoid tolls or add a stop without ever taking your eyes off the road.
While this technology is still in the experimental phase, it marks a decisive turning point. Google aims to make Maps a proactive assistant that anticipates your needs. The company is already working on the next steps, aiming to make world exploration even more fluid, personalized, and intelligent.
