#ICYMI: Google upgrades Maps with Gemini-powered features

The features will initially be launched in the US.

Photo from Google

Weather info easily accessible on Maps

Google is using the capabilities of Gemini models to upgrade its Maps app.

Now, users can ask the app for, say, "things to do with friends at night" to get ideas curated with Gemini. Reviews will be summarized with Gemini for more convenience.

The feature has started rolling out in the US on Android and iOS.

Similar experiences will be rolled out in the coming months on Search — including AI-powered review summaries and the option to ask detailed questions about places.

Google is also introducing a major update to make driving easier. It's now simpler to explore along the user's route before getting on the road—just get directions and tap "add stops."

Users will be able to see lanes, crosswalks and road signs clearly on the map. The app will show which lane users should be in by just following the blue line in the lane markers while navigating.

The app will also provide information about weather along your route.

Once in the destination, Google will show nearby parking lots and remind users to save their parking so they don't forget. Once parked, Google will walking directions from the car to the entrance of the destination.

Global rollout of these features on Android and iOS has started. Enhanced navigation starts rolling out next month on Android and iOS in over 30 metros.

Immersive View is also getting an update by allowing users to experience what stadiums, parks and routes look like using AI, imagery and computer vision—and even see what the weather and traffic conditions will be like.

This can be initially accessed in 150 cities globally, including in places like Brussels, Kyoto and Frankfurt.

Immersive View for routes is also getting new details by telling users where to park and highlight if they will encounter things like a complex turn along their route. This update has started rolling out on Android and iOS wherever Immersive View for routes is available.

What do you think guys?