Last Thanksgiving, I drove more than 1,000 miles with my dog in the back seat. Finding places to stop -- especially dog-friendly restaurants and parks -- meant constantly pulling over to search my phone. It was inconvenient and added a good amount of time to my trip, but hey, it was certainly better than one-hand searching on my phone while driving.
Google's newest update to Maps, amped up by Gemini AI, is designed to help with situations like that. The company announced today that it's adding Gemini's conversational AI capabilities directly into the Maps app, bringing more natural and hands-free interactions to the more than 2 billion Maps users worldwide.
Here's everything that's new for Google Maps.
Read also: Planning a Holiday Road Trip? Here's My Trick for Using Google Maps Without Internet
Hands-free navigation comes to Google Maps
The most notable change is the addition of Gemini's conversational mode while navigating. Drivers can now ask detailed, context-aware questions, such as where to find "a restaurant with vegan options and easy parking within a few miles," without having to type or tap.
CNET
Gemini can follow up on requests, too, like adding a calendar reminder for soccer practice or checking on EV charger availability along the route. On Android, it can also share your ETA with contacts by voice.
Drivers can report real-time conditions by saying something like "I see an accident ahead" or "There's flooding on this road" and Maps will add those safety alerts for other drivers on that route.
Google says Gemini-powered navigation will roll out to Android and iOS in the coming weeks, with Android Auto support to follow.
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