Google is making it easier for users to find restaurants and activities through Google Maps. The new feature, powered by Gemini, Google’s generative AI model, will provide personalized recommendations based on your searches. This update is part of a series of improvements coming to Google Maps, Google Earth, and Waze in the coming weeks.
How Gemini Works in Maps and Waze
Instead of just typing a simple query like “restaurant” into the search bar, users can now be more specific. For example, if someone searches for “things to do with friends at night in Boston,” Google Maps will provide tailored suggestions based on location and context. The results will include activities with star ratings, photos, and videos. Gemini will also summarize user reviews, helping you make informed choices. If you have more questions about the options presented, you can ask those directly in Google Maps.
However, it’s important to note that this feature works only when you start the search within Google Maps. If you use Gemini through another interface, you won’t get these specific recommendations. Google plans to offer similar AI-generated review summaries on Google Search soon, allowing users to ask questions about places as well.
Ensuring Accuracy with Grounding
Google acknowledges that AI models like Gemini can sometimes provide inaccurate information, a phenomenon known as “hallucination.” To tackle this, Google uses a process called grounding. Miriam Daniel, the vice president of Google Maps, explained that the company analyzes vast amounts of information in Maps to verify the accuracy of the recommendations. This ensures users can trust that the places shown really exist.
New Features for Navigation and Reporting
The AI recommendations will roll out to all Google Maps users on iOS and Android soon. In addition to the new recommendations engine, Google Maps will introduce detailed lane markings, crosswalks, and signs during navigation. Users will receive clear guidance on which lane to take, similar to features already available in Apple Maps. Google Maps will also add weather updates, alerting users to issues like flooded roads or low visibility.
Waze is also getting an upgrade. The app will now allow users to report incidents or road conditions using natural language. Users can tap the reporting button and speak their observations. The AI may ask follow-up questions to clarify the report. This feature is currently being tested and will be available to more users soon.
Overall, these enhancements aim to make Google Maps a more helpful tool for users, making it easier to discover new places and navigate efficiently. With AI integration, Google hopes to provide a more personalized and reliable experience for everyone.
