Like it or not, AI has infiltrated nearly every aspect of daily life—now it’s present in your navigation apps, too. Google is launching a new feature for Google Maps called “Ask Maps,” which uses the company’s Gemini AI to answer more complex questions while you’re planning a trip or on the road.
According to a blog post from Google Maps vice president Miriam Daniel, this feature allows users to ask the app more specific questions. You could say something like, “My phone is about to die—where can I charge it without having to wait in a long line for coffee?” or “Is there a public tennis court with lights on where I can play tonight?” The map should then display relevant suggestions based on information already within the platform.
Photo by: Google Maps
The goal, Daniel says, is to save users from having to scroll through reviews, photos, and comments—which can be very annoying if you’re trying to find something while driving. Instead, Gemini AI scans the available data and gathers the most relevant details for you.
Google also says this feature could be very useful for long trips. If you’re planning on driving somewhere like the Grand Canyon, for example, Ask Maps should be able to create an itinerary with recommendations for stops, attractions, or places to eat along the way.
Google also introduced updated visuals with an immersive navigation mode. So, rather than relying solely on flat 2D maps, the system combines mapping data, Street View imagery and AI-generated modeling to create a more realistic view of the road ahead. This means the driver can see three-dimensional details such as buildings, terrain and landmarks.
The Ask Maps feature appears as a new button within the Maps app. Google rolled out the feature earlier this week in the US and India on Android and iOS devices, with desktop support expected to come soon.
Motorcycle Pickup1: If used well, AI can be a very useful tool. In this case, Ask Maps seems like a smart way to find certain things quickly without having to scroll through endless reviews or photos—especially when you’re driving.
