Google Maps is getting a major update.

Gemini is now integrated with Google Maps, replacing Google Assistant, and is compatible with all navigation methods supported by the app, including driving, walking, cycling, and public transit. To activate Gemini, users can utilize the "Hey Google" voice command. With Gemini, Google Maps users can perform actions such as:

"Navigate home"

"Stop navigating"

"Add stop"

"Mute guidance"

"Avoid tolls"

"Show alternative routes"

Users can also get route information, like:

"What's my next turn?"

"When will I arrive?"

“What’s the weather like at my destination?”

"What's my next stop?"

Users can report issues on the road:

"There’s traffic on the road."

"There’s construction up ahead."

"There's a car breakdown that’s causing congestion."

Gemini can search along a route to find nearby places, such as: “Find me a cafe near my destination that serves tiramisu.” It can also refine search results and add stops, as well as provide information about destinations. For example: “What's the most popular dish on the menu?” Users can also inquire about landmarks.

Gemini also supports tasks like:

"Call Mom."

"Send a text to Larry.”

"Summarize my latest emails."

"When’s my next meeting?"

"Play music with Spotify."

Google demonstrated Gemini's capabilities in a video, highlighting its ability to answer questions about destinations, such as inquiries about parking availability.

Earlier this month, landmark-based navigation was announced for Google Maps. Instead of turn distances, Google Maps will use landmarks such as stop signs and traffic lights, similar to Apple Maps. For instance, instead of saying "turn right in 500 feet," Google Maps might say, "turn right at the second stop sign."

Google Maps will also use AI to generate landmark-based directions like “Turn right after the Thai Siam Restaurant.” Google will filter out buildings with low visibility.

In early November, Google announced that Gemini for Google Maps navigation would be available in the coming weeks for Android and iOS. However, it has not yet appeared on a Pixel 6 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max.

Google Maps comes pre-installed on Android, but iOS users can download it from the App Store. Google Maps and Apple Maps can both be installed on iPhones.

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