AI is coming to Google Maps to help you find inspiration for what to do in an area

Google is bringing an AI revamp to its Google Maps platforms and corresponding location services.

Google Maps is rolling out an update that brings a number of integrated AI features to its location platforms, including Waze.

Starting this week, the company’s Gemini AI will be integrated into Google Maps in the US on Android and iOS. The new feature will allow new ways for users to get inspiration on things to do in an area.

In the past, you could look up specific categories like restaurants or gas stations nearby. Now you can ask Gemini for more specific ideas. Google said Gemini may give suggestions to a query like “places to go with friends at night” with suggestions about live music or a speakeasy.

Google vice president Miriam Daniel told B-17 that the presentation of the results in Google Maps and the Gemini app might look different, “but the fundamental core is somewhat the same.”

“We’re using the same advanced models and we actually look to the billions of pieces of facts that we have in maps and the reviews we have in maps to actually ground that information on the results we are providing,” Daniel said.

Google Maps will also allow users to see AI-summarized reviews of places that provide an overview of what others have experienced, like if a restaurant is loud or has outdoor seating options.

“All of these features are made possible thanks to our Gemini’s powerful creation, reasoning, and summarization capabilities — grounded in our trusted data about 250 million places around the world,” Google said in its blog post about the update.

Google is also rolling out driving updates in Maps next month, including enhanced navigation features like lane and crosswalk displays. Drivers will also have the option to see and report weather disruptions, which may include flooding or low-visibility roads. It will also provide arrival guidance that shows nearby parking lots and provides walking directions to the entrance, the company said.

Drivers will be able to report incidents within Google Maps.

Users will also be able explore their route before they start their trip by tapping “add stops.” The feature will show “top landmarks, attractions, scenic spots and dining options” along the way, Google said.

Google’s app Waze is also launching Conversational Reporting in beta this week. The new feature allows users to report road incidents verbally by tapping the reporting button and speaking. Previously, users had to manually report incidents. Users will also be able to add school zones to the map later this year.

Google’s AI-integrated update isn’t the first of its kind. The tech giant has been working on integrating AI into various platforms, such as AI Overviews in Google search results. The company also recently updated Google Shopping with personalized recommendations and AI Overviews-like product briefings.