Google Maps Adds AI to Answer Questions & Curate Reviews for New Spots

Google Maps is introducing a major AI-driven update aimed at improving users' experiences in discovering new locations and activities. This week, Google is launching features powered by its advanced Gemini AI model that will allow users to explore locations based on detailed, descriptive search prompts and receive AI-generated summaries of reviews for each spot.

AI-Powered Location Searches and “Inspirational Collections”

With the new update, Google Maps users can now search for activities or destinations using broader descriptions, such as “things to do with friends at night.” Google's Gemini AI model will respond by generating curated "inspirational collections" of locations that match the query. For instance, a search for late-night activities may bring up listings like “speakeasies” or places with “live music” for a more tailored experience. Traditional search results will still be shown below these collections, offering a mix of AI-suggested and conventional options.

Ask Questions and Get AI-Summarized Reviews

Beyond search, the update includes a feature that lets users ask specific questions about a location, such as “Is it a quiet atmosphere?” This “Ask Maps about this place” option will generate AI-driven answers based on Google Maps' analysis of user reviews, summarizing key insights. In a recent demonstration, Google Maps head Miriam Daniel showcased the feature by entering a query for a restaurant, prompting Maps to respond that it has “a lively atmosphere and a cozy feel.” For transparency, the AI answer will also display the specific reviews that informed it.

These AI tools build upon Google’s earlier experiments with integrating AI into Maps and are being introduced on both Android and iOS platforms in the U.S. this week.

"We wanted to make sure that anything we show in this experience is fresh and factual," said Daniel. "There are 100 million updates happening every day, and we’re able to pull from that refreshed information... making sure that the results show real places on the map.”

Expanding Immersive View to 150 Cities

In addition to AI-enhanced search and reviews, Google is also broadening its “Immersive View” feature, which debuted in 2022, to cover 150 cities. Immersive View combines Street View with satellite images, offering users a dynamic, aerial view of locations with the option to zoom down to street level for closer exploration. This update aims to help users feel more familiar with a location before they arrive.

Additional Navigation Enhancements and Waze Updates

Several new navigation features are also arriving in select cities, including expanded map details for drivers and enhanced guidance akin to what users experience on Waze. Google Maps’ Waze integration will now allow drivers to report incidents by voice, improving road safety and convenience during trips.

What This Means

These new AI capabilities in Google Maps mark a significant step in how users can discover and interact with local businesses, leisure spots, and cities. By making it easier to receive quick, accurate answers and comprehensive summaries, Google Maps aims to elevate the user experience for both locals and travelers. As Immersive View expands and AI prompts become more prevalent, Google Maps is positioning itself as a more interactive guide, encouraging users to explore their surroundings confidently.