Google adds many new AI-powered features to Maps and expands coverage of existing ones
Google is updating Maps with several AI-powered features that make it easier to search, explore your surroundings, and get directions to your destination. The new Google Maps will make it easier to find specific locations nearby, and updates to the navigation interface will provide electric vehicle drivers with more information about chargers. Some functions were also extended to more regions.
The updated search in Google Maps will add photos of objects in addition to location. The results are based on the analysis of photos shared by Google Maps users. Search works better with artificial intelligence and image recognition models. In the example below, you can see images of cute animals on lattes and click on them to learn more about the coffee shop and find it on the map.
In the coming days, the new Maps search method will be rolled out in France, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the US. Google plans to expand it to other countries in the future.
Artificial intelligence expands search capabilities. For example, if you are in Tokyo and don’t know what to do, you can search for “things to do”. You can go straight to the result or save it for later. This update will be rolled out globally to Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
The Maps navigation interface will more accurately reflect your surroundings. You will be able to see more realistic buildings for better orientation. The maps will get updated colors and improved details of highway lanes. This update will be launched in the coming months in 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, France, and Germany.
In Europe, Google is expanding speed limit information to 20 countries using artificial intelligence. The feature will be rolled out on Android, iOS, and for cars with built-in Google navigation in the coming months.
Electric vehicle drivers will see additional information on Android and iOS about the charging stations displayed on the map, including whether the charger is compatible with their vehicle and whether it is fast, medium, or slow. You will be able to see when the charging station was last used to check its performance.
Google has announced the expansion of some AI features to more cities. Immersive View for Routes, which allows you to preview a route on Android and iOS, is available in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, and Venice.
Google is also offering Lens in Maps, formerly known as Search with Live View, in more than 50 new cities, including Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, São Paulo, and Taipei. This feature uses AI and augmented reality to make it easier to understand your surroundings and find information about ATMs, public transportation, restaurants, and more.
