Flashspoter - The Black Friday season may be drawing attention, but Google is also preparing a major upgrade for Maps ahead of the holidays. Google released updates focused on real data and functionality, including Gemini'S AI integration, prediction of electric vehicle charger availability, improved exploration tabs, as well as an anonymous review system for better privacy. All of these features are designed to help users deal with high mobility during the holiday season and daily travel throughout the year.
Starting next week, electric vehicle owners will benefit from new predictive capabilities in Maps. Google uses AI to estimate the number of chargers available when users arrive and replace, with , so that all information appears more consistent. This prediction was made from the analysis of historical data of hundreds of thousands of charging stations in different countries. Previously, Maps only displayed a realtime status that changed frequently when users reached a location. With the latest update route planning becomes more accurate, particularly for lengthy journeys and places where the availability of chargers is low. These enhancements will be visible in Maps on Android Auto as well as in vehicles with Google built-in.
Google is also expanding the use of Gemini to help with location exploration. The know before You go feature summarizes important information from user reviews and internet searches, including how to make a reservation, the best time to visit, or menu recommendations. Everything is generated automatically by Gemini without inserting rumors or speculation. This update was initially released in the US for Android and iPhone and then it was made available in other countries.
A different update to the Explore tab which is now showing trending activities and curated recommendations from Viator, Lonely Planet, and OpenTable. In addition, local content is offered to assist users in discovering activities and places that are based on the newest trends. The feature is available worldwide during this month for Android and iOS.
Google also introduced an anonymous review system to improve user comfort and Privacy. Now anyone can display an optional nickname and profile picture when posting a review. Google still maintains a fake review detection system so that public anonymity does not reduce the quality of information. Android, iOS, and desktop users can already access this feature.
Navigation features integration by Gemini is the major change out of many. Users can activate Gemini with the voice command Hey Google or tapping the icon in Maps. AI will help perform a variety of tasks without manual touch, such as searching for EV chargers on the route, finding restaurants based on detailed Preferences, Sharing ETA to Contacts (Android only), adding agenda to the calendar, to report traffic incidents. All these functions are designed to reduce distraction while driving.
Also, Google is working on a Lens with Gemini feature which helps users to get the information about a place just by pointing the camera in Maps. Suppose you want to know why a restaurant is popular or what kind of atmosphere it is before going there. This feature will be there for you at the end of the month.
In order to perform this operation, users should update Google Maps, install the Gemini app and check that their operating system is the latest version. The Gemini integration is already partially available in the US and will continue to be rolled out slowly.
By this update with over 2 billion users per month, Google is showing its commitment to making Maps more anticipatory, precise, and informative. Through AI, Maps is designed to be a more adaptive and relevant navigation tool for today's travel needs.
source Engadget, BGR, Los Angeles Times, USA Today
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