Google Maps Updates: Gemini-Powered Search and Enhanced Immersive View Features
Google has unveiled a series of enhancements to Google Maps aimed at refining the driving experience, broadening the reach of Immersive View, and integrating artificial intelligence across more functionalities. With the expansion of Gemini, users can now perform natural language searches in the Maps search bar and let the AI guide their inquiries.
For example, as detailed in a blog post, users can search for phrases like “activities to do with friends at night,” and Gemini will suggest various locations to check out. Additionally, Gemini will generate concise reviews for locations, allowing users to quickly understand what to expect.
These new Gemini features are set to launch in the US starting this week on both Android and iOS platforms. The AI-generated review summaries and the capability to ask specific questions regarding locations will also be integrated into Search in the upcoming months.
According to Google, its mapping service, which has been operational for 20 years, draws in over 2 billion users each month. The company implements more than 100 million updates daily to the maps, utilizing AI to process vast amounts of imagery and information from local sources and its user community.
Improvements to the navigation system have also been announced, aimed at facilitating exploration of points of interest along your driving route. When navigation is initiated and you select “add stops,”Maps will display prominent landmarks, attractions, scenic views, and dining establishments situated along your journey.
The revamped navigation interface will prominently showcase lanes, crosswalks, and road signs to assist drivers in unfamiliar territories characterized by complex lanes, junctions, and exits. Furthermore, users will have the ability to report weather-related disruptions, such as flooded roads, unplowed paths, or areas with low visibility.
Additionally, the navigation feature will clarify which lane to merge into, indicated by a blue line within the lane markers.
The Immersive View feature in Google Maps has also undergone significant enhancement. Beginning this week, it will be available on both Android and iOS devices in 150 cities worldwide, including Brussels, Kyoto, and Frankfurt. For those unfamiliar, Immersive View allows users to visualize stadiums, parks, and routes through the utilization of AI, imagery, and advanced computer vision technologies.
Image Credit: Neowin.net
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