Google Maps gets Gemini-powered driving tools, route suggestions

Google Maps update: Google has announced that it is rolling out more features powered by its generative artificial intelligence (AI)-based assistant, Gemini, to Google Maps. These new features will not only help users explore an area better, but they will also enable them to get to a new destination safely while avoiding confusion regarding the route that they need to take.

The company today announced that soon, Gemini-powered Maps will be able to curate lists recommending new places to the users. "Say a friend is visiting and you need to plan an activity. Just ask Maps for “things to do with friends at night” to get ideas curated with Gemini," the company wrote in a blog post announcing the news while adding that this feature is currently being rolled out to Search users in the US on Android and on iOS.

Beyond this, Google is also introducing new Gemini-powered driving tools to make it easier for users to explore a route before they start driving. The company today announced that now users will be able to see top landmarks, attractions, scenic spots and dining options when driving through unfamiliar areas. The company also said that it will also highlight the lane in which users should be driving in to avoid to sudden road mergers.

Additionally, the company is updating its Arrival Guidance feature to show building entrance and nearby parking spots to the users when they arrive at a spot. The company also said that it will also show directions, using Street View or AR walking navigation, from the parking spot to the entrance of a building once they have parked their vehicles.  

Google also said that it will also show weather disruptions along a route. This feature is being rolled out on Android and iOS globally this week.

Lastly, the company is adding new details including parking spots and complex turns along a route in Immersive View. These details will be available on Android and iOS in all the cities where Immersive View is available.