Google is updating Maps with the addition of Gemini, a built-in assistant for all-voice interactions while driving. Users will be able to use natural language to search for places along their route, find electric vehicle charging stations, share ETAs on Android, and manage their journey without touching the screen.
Google is updating Maps with the addition of Gemini, a built-in assistant for all-voice interactions while driving. Users will be able to use natural language to search for places along their route, find electric vehicle charging stations, share ETAs on Android, and manage their journey without touching the screen.
According to Interesting Engineering, Gemini inside Maps understands complex contextual queries and supports dialogue while driving. The application allows you to ask «find an inexpensive restaurant with vegan options along the way», clarify «what’s the parking situation there» and immediately confirm «let’s go there». With permission, the assistant can create a reminder or event in Calendar by voice, as well as quickly share the estimated time of arrival with contacts on Android. A voice message about an accident, flooding or other incident will instantly warn other drivers and help recalculate the route.
The navigation update includes real-world landmark prompts. Instead of «turn right in 500 feet,» drivers will hear «turn right after Thai Siam Restaurant,» with the specific landmark displayed on the screen as they approach. Google explains that the landmarks are selected by combining a database of hundreds of millions of places with Street View imagery, making it easier to understand directions in heavy city traffic.
Users will get two more additions. First, Maps will be able to send proactive notifications about traffic jams and closures even without active navigation, allowing you to make decisions in advance. Second, an improved Lens in Maps with Gemini support will allow you to point your camera at a cafe or landmark, see pins and immediately ask «what is this place» or «what is the atmosphere inside» to decide in seconds whether to stop by.
Background. The Gemini integration brings Google Maps closer to a full-fledged assistant that combines search, navigation, local tips, and basic productivity actions in a single interface. The rollout will be gradual on Android and iOS, with Android Auto support promised to be added later. For the market, this is another step towards conversational, contextual navigation, where route selection, stops, and actions during a trip are determined by voice, rather than a series of taps and app switching.
Previously, dev.ua wrote about how Google launched new agent capabilities in AI Mode — its feature that allows users to ask complex questions and additional queries to explore a specific topic directly in Search.
