Google Maps: A guide to harnessing its latest AI upgrades

With enhanced destination insights, curated local recommendations, and an AI-powered chatbot for streamlined trip planning, here’s what you need to know about Google Maps’ newest integration of AI technology.

For many of us, Google Maps has become an indispensable tool in our daily lives, whether it’s guiding us on road trips or helping us to locate nearby spots to grab a morning coffee. However, the app’s capabilities have been somewhat limited when it comes to truly personalised needs, such as discovering local-approved culinary gems or how to navigate an unfamiliar city in the most efficient way possible. Now, with the introduction of AI, the all-new Google Maps promises to revolutionise our user experience, offering a more intuitive journey, so here’s how to make the most of these new enhancements.

For those unsure about the foundations of AI, Google’s enhancements will utilise two distinctive concepts – Generative AI and Machine Learning. The former allows the app to autonomously produce content gathered from vast amounts of data, while the latter involves the implementation of algorithms that will allow the app to make predictions and decisions through recognising patterns.

During the company’s recent I/O event that happens annually, Google announced that the Google Maps was being reimagined to incorporate both machine learning and generative AI in the form of Gemini, the company’s generative AI chatbot, which would aid with search functions and overall app capabilities. Some of these enhancements have already been applied, while others are in the pipeline and will be introduced in the coming months.

Explore Like a Local

Instead of punching in ‘coffee near me’ into Google Maps, you’ll now be able to be even more specific by entering search enquiries such as ‘coffee places with a vintage vibe and a vegan menu’ or ‘coffee shops ideal for families with small children.’ The revamped app will be able to sift through Google Maps’ enormous database of data as well as the public web, blogs, detailed reviews, and so forth to identify relevant places that are suited to what you’re looking for.

Instead of utilising key word searches, the application will implement its machine learning capabilities to delve past just simple descriptions, making it easier than ever to experience a desired destination the same way locals do as a result of their input. This, in combination with Google’s ‘Local Guides’ scheme where people can contribute their knowledge and recommendations in exchange for points and online recognition, will ensure that results are as comprehensive as possible.

Places AI

In addition to being able to access curated recommendations from locals and the online community, details about each business or service will also be enhanced as a result of Google’s new ‘Places AI.’ Beyond summaries about each location, users can also access useful facts like what surrounds your chosen place, encompassing shopping opportunities, recreational areas, restaurants, and more. It will also include how far these places are from your chosen spot, making it easier than ever to plan out a full day of things to do without having to think too much ahead of time.

Photorealistic Maps

Google has been utilising Photorealistic 3D Maps for its Google Earth application, but now the company plans on leverage the technology for Google Maps and Google Street View. This means you can now enjoy a high-speed ‘immersive bird’s eye view’ of any location, which can be helpful when planning a trip to an unfamiliar destination or even getting a better idea of what neighbourhood you’re moving to when purchasing a new home.

AI Chatbot – Gemini

If you require any additional help, Google is rolling out AI Chatbot – Gemini that can offer guidance and help answer any specific questions. Think of this service as having an online personal assistant. Beyond answering questions, it can summarise your searches into a digestible thread of information, aid with planning trips in the most efficient way possible, and help weigh out recommendations against reviews that exist on the internet, among other uses.

Furthermore, if you’re travelling hands-free, the bot has an audio submission option so you can talk to your device while on the move. For example, if you breeze through your initial itinerary and are exhausted from roaming around in the heat, AI Chatbot – Gemini can suggest nearby activities or places to go that are indoors, making it an advantageous travel companion no matter where you are.

Make sure to keep your app updated to start benefitting from these new developments!

(Main and Featured Image credit: Google)