Google Maps navigation gets a powerful boost with Gemini

Google Maps is getting a Gemini upgrade that makes navigating smarter and easier. We're introducing the first hands-free, conversational driving experience in Google Maps, built with Gemini and our comprehensive information about the real world. It's like having a knowledgeable friend in the passenger seat who can confidently help you get where you're going.

Here's a look at four new updates coming to Maps:

Getting things done when navigating just got simpler and easier

We're bringing Gemini, your AI assistant, to our hands-free driving experience in the Google Maps app. That means it's even simpler to find places along your route, check for available EV chargers or on Android, share your ETA with friends. No fumbling required - now you can just ask.

You can get help with multi-step tasks, like: "Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple miles? … What's parking like there?" Followed by, "OK, let's go there." You can even ask "Oh, by the way, can you also add a calendar event for soccer practice tomorrow for 5 p.m.?"

With your permission, Gemini connects with your Calendar and adds the event automatically. You can ask for something more specific, like "What dishes are popular there?" or even catch up on last night's game or news, all without taking your hands off the wheel.

Helping drivers is a key part of what makes Google Maps reliable, so we're making it even easier to report traffic disruptions. Simply say, "I see an accident," "Looks like there's flooding ahead" or "Watch out for that slowdown" to report disruptions instantly. Gemini in navigation starts rolling out in the coming weeks on Android and iOS everywhere Gemini is available, with Android Auto on the way.

Get to your destination with real-world landmarks

We've all heard "turn right in 500 feet" while driving and wondered exactly how far that is. Now with Gemini, in addition to traffic lights and stop signs, we'll also show you landmarks like gas stations, restaurants and famous buildings that are easy to spot along your route. You'll hear clear directions like "turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant," and see it highlighted on your map as you approach.

Gemini does this by analyzing Google Maps' fresh, comprehensive information about 250 million places and cross-referencing it with Street View images to curate the most useful landmarks visible from the street, so guidance is accurate and helpful. Landmark-based navigation is rolling out now on Android and iOS in the U.S.

Beat traffic before you're in it

There's nothing worse than being surprised by a sudden standstill. Now, Google Maps can give you a heads up, even if you're not actively navigating. It proactively notifies you of disruptions on the road ahead - like when there's an unexpected closure or heavy traffic jam. Proactive traffic alerts are rolling out now in the U.S. on Android.

Get the inside scoop, thanks to Lens built with Gemini

Once you arrive, you can still rely on Gemini to explore. Have you ever wanted to know what the highly rated dishes are at a restaurant, or if that bakery you just passed carries French butter croissants? Now you can have a quick conversation with Google Maps to find out.

Just tap on the camera in the search bar and hold your phone up to identify places like restaurants, cafes, shops or famous landmarks in your view. When you see pins, tap the mic to ask questions about the place, like you would a friend: "What is this place and why is it popular?" or "What's the vibe inside?" The powerful combination of Gemini capabilities and Google Maps' understanding of places around the world gets you the answers you need, helping you decide in a moment if a spot is worth the wait. Lens built with Gemini starts rolling out gradually later this month in the U.S. on Android and iOS.

Google Maps with Gemini is making your journeys more productive and fun, so you can navigate with confidence.

• Maps