Google brings AI to navigation with 'Ask Maps' feature, allows for complex questions

In a groundbreaking move, Google is enhancing its Maps application by introducing the 'Ask Maps' feature powered by its Gemini AI technology. This new functionality, aimed at making navigation more intuitive, allows users to pose complex inquiries beyond standard navigation queries. According to Miriam Daniel, a vice president at Google Maps, users can now ask detailed questions such as, "My phone is dying — 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 that I can play at tonight?" The responses are tailored based on individual search histories and saved trips, making it easier for users to turn their plans into actionable steps. Google asserts that this innovation is set to revolutionize how maps are utilized. The company emphasizes that by combining real-time mapping capabilities with advanced AI models, they are transforming the exploration experience into a seamless conversation, marking the most significant upgrade to navigation in over a decade. The rollout of 'Ask Maps' begins today in the U.S. and India on both Android and iOS platforms, with a desktop version expected to follow soon. Google Maps, which boasts over 2 billion monthly users and celebrated its 20th anniversary last year, remains the leading navigation app worldwide. Notably, Google has decided to exclude advertisements from this new feature at the moment, focusing instead on delivering an exceptional user experience. Andrew Duchi, a product management director at Google, stated, "Right now, we are very focused on launching this for our users and providing a great experience." However, the company hasn't dismissed the possibility of introducing ads in the future. Google Maps generates revenue mainly through advertising and promoted placements for businesses, and it also charges for access to its Maps APIs and location data. Despite its extensive user base, Google has historically under-monetized this segment, as noted by Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Nowak, who highlighted that the unit is working on increasing revenue streams, including licensing mapping data for renewable energy projects.