Google Adds Gemini AI to Maps With New Ask Maps Feature and Immersive Navigation

Google is rolling out a major update to Google Maps, introducing a conversational AI feature called Ask Maps powered by Gemini and launching Immersive Navigation, the app’s most significant overhaul of driving directions in more than a decade.

The new Ask Maps feature lets users ask natural-language questions directly inside the app to discover places and plan trips. By tapping the Ask Maps icon, users can type a prompt and receive recommendations generated using Google Maps’ data about locations, reviews, and user activity. The feature aims to surface answers that previously required manually searching through listings and reviews.

Google says the system draws on information about more than 300 million places in Maps and insights from a community of over 500 million contributors. Responses are also personalized based on prior searches and saved places, allowing the app to tailor suggestions to individual preferences.

Ask Maps is designed to make planning easier by combining discovery and action. Once a recommendation appears, users can book reservations, save locations, share places with friends, or start navigation within the same interface.

The update also introduces Immersive Navigation, a redesigned driving experience that replaces the traditional 2D map view with a 3D representation of surrounding roads and landmarks. The feature renders buildings, overpasses, and terrain to help drivers better understand their surroundings while navigating.

Gemini models play a key role in generating the visuals. The system analyzes Street View imagery and aerial photos to create the 3D environment and determine when to highlight road details such as lanes, traffic lights, stop signs, and crosswalks.

Google has also refined voice guidance in the navigation system to make directions sound more conversational. Instead of relying on rigid phrasing, the system provides instructions designed to resemble guidance from a passenger.

Additional updates focus on improving route awareness. Maps can now show a broader view of upcoming turns using smart zoom and transparent buildings, helping drivers prepare for lane changes earlier. When suggesting alternative routes, the app will also explain tradeoffs—such as choosing between a longer route with less traffic or a faster option that includes tolls.

Before arriving, drivers can preview their destination using Street View and receive suggestions for parking locations. As they approach, the app will highlight the building entrance and indicate which side of the street the destination is on.

Google said Immersive Navigation begins rolling out in the United States and will expand to Android, iOS, CarPlay, Android Auto, and vehicles with Google built-in over the coming months.

The Ask Maps feature is launching on Android and iOS in the United States and India, with desktop support planned for a future release.

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This analysis is based on reporting from Google.

Images courtesy of Google.

This article was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.