You can now ask Google Maps ‘complex, real-world questions’ — and Gemini will answer

Google is weaving its Gemini AI deeper into its ecosystem, launching a significant upgrade to Google Maps. The new 'Ask Maps' feature, powered by Gemini, allows users to ask complex, real-world questions conversationally, moving beyond simple address searches. Examples from Google include queries like 'where can I charge my phone without having to wait in line for coffee' or finding a 'cozy' vegetarian restaurant for a group at a specific time. Gemini processes these detailed requests by analyzing user-submitted reviews, photos, and personalized data from a user's past Maps interactions and saved places to generate tailored recommendations. Crucially, Google states the feature currently relies solely on Maps data, not information from other apps like Gmail, and that paid placements do not influence results. A single tap can then turn a recommendation into an action, such as booking a table.

Alongside the AI search, Google announced 'Immersive Navigation,' billed as the largest upgrade to Maps navigation in over a decade. This visual overhaul introduces refreshed colors, detailed 3D buildings, realistic terrain, and greenery to the navigation view. The perspective dynamically zooms to highlight critical information like lanes, crosswalks, and traffic lights relevant to the next maneuver. Google states this provides a more realistic, confidence-inspiring view of the road ahead. The 'Ask Maps' feature is launching this week in the United States and India on Android and iOS, with desktop support and a wider rollout expected later.