Navigation app Google Maps will be receiving a significant update that integrates two features to elevate its experience. The first is an immersive navigation that adds detailed 3D characteristics while the second is the integration of its Gemini AI assistant allowing drivers to have a conversation with the app. Google bills this as the most
Google bills this as the most significant update for the app in the last decade and believes will keep drivers focussed and informed on the road.
The 3D detailing will not only cover buildings and overpasses but also crosswalks, traffic lanes, traffic lights and stop signs. Adding the 3D element was made possible with help from Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence models that analysed real-world imagery from Google Street View and aerial photos to model the 3D view.
On top of that, the zoom feature has been made ‘smarter’ and transparent buildings will now display more of the route to better prepare drivers for the next move or turn. Additionally, voice guidance has also been improved to sound more natural, meant to imitate a ‘friend’ giving directions.
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Maps has also improved the real-time alerts that cover disruptions with the alternative routes will include detailed trade-offs, such as a longer distance with less traffic or a shorter one but with a toll.
Furthermore, drivers will be able to visualise their destination before beginning their journey with Street View and even parking recommendations. Maps will highlight the side of the building to enter from as you reach the destination.
Next up is a deeper integration of Gemini AI assistant into Maps, paving the way for users to have conversations with the app to determine the best location for tasks.
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“My phone is dying so where can I charge it without having to wait too long while getting coffee?” or “Which café near me has strong Wi-Fi and plug points for me to get some work done?” become common conversations for added convenience. All these results will also be personalised based on previously visited locations or searches.
The conversational feature will first roll out in the U.S. and India on Android and iOS devices while other regions are planned for later this year, including for desktop browsers.
As for the immersive navigation mode, it will first be made available in the U.S and is eligible for Android and iOS, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and cars with Google built-in.