Janice R. Andrews
Google’s navigation platform is getting a significant upgrade with the introduction of Gemini AI capabilities. The enhancement enables natural conversations with Maps, allowing users to discover places and read AI-synthesized review summaries through simple queries. The feature debuts this week across both Android and iOS devices.
The company is also broadening its AI-powered Immersive View feature, which now includes predictive visualization of locations at user-specified times. The service has expanded to encompass 150 cities worldwide, with new additions like Brussels and Kyoto, and now covers venues such as university grounds.
Navigation features are receiving attention too, with new functionalities for multi-stop route planning and improved directional guidance. Detailed navigation assistance, including specific lane guidance and merge points, will roll out across 30 cities in the coming month.
The AI integration extends beyond Maps, reaching other Google navigation tools. Waze users will soon enjoy conversational reporting for road hazards, while Google Earth is implementing AI features to streamline data access for urban development professionals.
