Google Maps Adds AI Tips, EV Charger Predictions & More
▼ Summary
– Google Maps is introducing a “know before you go” tool powered by Gemini that provides tips on reservations, parking, and secret menu items for places like restaurants and hotels.
– The updated Explore tab now makes it easier to find trending nearby spots and curated lists from sources like Viator and Lonely Planet by swiping up.
– A new EV charger availability prediction feature uses AI to forecast how many chargers will be free upon arrival when users search for “EV chargers.”
– Users can now leave reviews under nicknames while still being tied to their Google Account to prevent review bombing, allowing only one review per business.
– These updates follow Google Maps’ recent integration of Gemini, which enables users to ask about points of interest, get answers on topics, and perform tasks like adding calendar events.
Navigating daily life just became significantly more intuitive with the latest updates to Google Maps. The platform is introducing a suite of new features powered by advanced technology, all aimed at providing users with deeper insights and greater convenience. These enhancements include a Gemini-powered “know before you go” tool, a revamped Explore tab, and a novel prediction feature for electric vehicle charger availability.
When searching for destinations such as restaurants, hotels, or event venues, users will now encounter a dedicated tips section designed to surface crucial details. This might include advice on the best way to secure a reservation, highlight secret menu items, or suggest optimal parking locations. Each tip can be selected to reveal expanded information, ensuring travelers are fully prepared. This functionality is currently being released to users in the United States on both Android and iOS devices.
The Explore tab has also received a significant upgrade, making it quicker to discover trending and popular spots in your vicinity. A simple swipe upwards reveals a curated selection of new cafes, unique art galleries, and popular activities nearby. Finding recommendations is now more streamlined, with curated lists from trusted sources like Lonely Planet, Viator, and OpenTable, alongside suggestions from local influencers. This updated Explore tab begins its global rollout this month on Android and iOS.
For electric vehicle owners, a major new capability addresses a common concern: charger availability. By searching for “EV chargers” within the app, drivers can now see a prediction of how many ports are likely to be free when they arrive. Google uses AI to analyze historical usage patterns and real-time data to generate these forecasts, helping to reduce uncertainty and planning time. This EV charger prediction feature starts appearing next week on Android Auto and in vehicles with Google built-in.
Another notable addition gives users the option to post reviews using a nickname, such as “Julia Loves Sweets” or “Eager Elf.” While these playful aliases are public, each review remains tied to a single Google Account behind the scenes. This system maintains accountability by preventing a single user from leaving multiple negative reviews for the same business, a tactic often referred to as review bombing.
These announcements build upon the recent integration of Google’s Gemini AI into Maps, which already allows for conversational queries about points of interest, real-time information on topics like sports, and the ability to manage tasks such as adding events directly to a calendar.
(Source: TechCrunch)
