Google Maps can now write captions for your photos using AI

In a bid to enrich local knowledge sharing, Google has unveiled new features for Maps that leverage artificial intelligence. Announced on Tuesday, the standout addition is Gemini, which autonomously generates captions for photos and videos that users wish to share about various locations. When users select images to contribute, Gemini analyzes them and provides caption suggestions. This feature allows users to edit or discard the generated captions, giving them a head start in sharing their experiences. Currently, these suggestions are available in English on iOS for U.S. users, with plans for a global rollout and availability on Android in the coming months. Google is also improving the photo-sharing process by enabling users to access images and videos from their recent experiences directly within the "Contribute" tab. By enabling media access for Google Maps in their device settings, users can easily tap on a photo and share it with the community. According to Google, these contributions help others grasp the ambiance of a place or discover new offerings, like updated menus. The company is further enhancing user engagement by allowing contributors to track their impact. Users can now see their total earned points displayed in the "Contribute" section, and the levels of their Local Guide status will be visible on their profiles. Local Guides accumulate points by adding images, writing reviews, answering inquiries, and verifying information to enhance Google Maps. In addition to these updates, Google has refreshed achievement badges to clearly indicate whether contributors are "expert fact-finders," "master photographers," or "rising novices." They have also introduced new gold-colored profiles to highlight top contributors. These enhancements aim to support Google’s vast community of over 500 million contributors who actively share valuable content to assist others in making informed decisions about where to go and what to do. As Maps relies heavily on user contributions for up-to-date information, these updates are a strategic move to streamline the sharing process.