New Delhi: Google Maps is releasing a new feature of artificial intelligence called Ask Maps, which is a product of the Gemini AI of Google. The update
enables users to pose complex questions using natural language and gives personalised suggestions right within the app, as well. Google has introduced an updated experience of immersive navigation that makes driving directions more detailed and easier to follow.
The new tools will be used to ease the process of travel planning and day-to-day navigation. Google claims that by integrating AI, real-time information, and better imagery, Google Maps will assist users in making decisions faster on the road and discovering where to go and places to potentially be useful much easier.
Gemini-powered ‘Ask Maps’ for real-world questions
The new feature, Ask Maps, allows the user to ask questions in the form of conversation, like where to find a charging point, where to find a tennis court, or where to find a quiet spot to meet friends. The user does not have to use keys to search; instead, they can give an explanation of what they require using natural language. The AI then processes the request and proposes the pertinent places as well as directions and estimated travel time.
The feature is useful in planning trips. As an example, a user that goes to several points might request suggestions on recommended places on the way. Maps can give hints, hints of fellow users as well as details about attractions or secret places in the area.
Another personalisation feature of Ask Maps is that it uses signals like already searched places or places saved to personalise search results. In the case when a user regularly enters the query about vegan restaurants, say, the AI might show preference to those dining places where vegan menus are offered when proposing meeting points.
Google indicated that the option is already being launched in the US and India on Android and iOS devices. Desktop support will be coming shortly.
Immersive navigation brings detailed 3D views
Google also improves the driving with immersive navigation, enabling a detailed 3D map view. The new interface shows surrounding buildings, terrain and overpasses to provide the driver with a better view of the environment.
There are now maps that reflect crucial information about roads such as lights, crosswalks, stoplights, and lane markings. Smart zoom is also used in the system to give a wider view of the route to enable the drivers to plan the turns or lane changes in advance.
Smarter guidance and real-time alerts
The voice directions in Google Maps have also been repackaged to be more natural and comprehensible. The app is now more precise because it does not provide merely distance-based instructions. As an illustration, instructions such as ‘pass this exit and the next one’ are heard instead of a distance signal by drivers.
To the navigation system, there will also be an explanation of the alternatives in routes. It can indicate a route with less traffic and a longer distance or a route with tolls and a faster one. Moreover, Maps will inform drivers of road construction or road accidents based on the information provided by both Google Maps and Waze communities.
Better destination previews and parking tips
Users are also able to view the location before arriving at it using the Street View images. Maps will also suggest places to be parked as one comes to the building and the entrance position.
Miriam Daniel, the vice president of Google Maps, says that the update is meant to drive out confusion on the roads. The new experience is aimed at providing useful information at the appropriate time, assisting the drivers to navigate more efficiently.
The Immersive Navigation feature will be launched in the US and progressively support Android and iOS devices and CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google-built-in vehicles in the next few months.
