Google Maps now uses Gemini AI

Google Maps is getting a major upgrade with Gemini AI integration. The update aims to make navigation feel more natural, like chatting with a helpful friend in the passenger seat.

With Gemini built in, users can ask questions, report traffic, or add calendar events using just their voice while driving. The AI can also handle multi-step queries, making it easier to get information without taking your eyes off the road.

Google is also upgrading directions with landmark-based guidance, so instead of saying “turn right in 300 meters,” Maps might say “turn right after the Thai Siam restaurant.” These visual cues will show up on the map as you approach.

Beyond navigation, Lens in Maps now lets users point their phone camera at places to identify landmarks or shops and ask Gemini questions about them. These new features are gradually rolling out later this month in the US, but we currently don’t have information on when it will arrive in the Philippines.