Google Maps Gets A Smart Upgrade With Gemini AI

Google GOOG is making Maps a lot smarter. The company announced Wednesday that its Gemini AI assistant is coming to the Maps app turning your regular navigation experience into something a lot more interactive and personal.

With Gemini built in, you won't just get directions anymore. The AI can now help you discover interesting spots along your route, check for nearby EV chargers, give you live traffic alerts before you get stuck, and even identify landmarks as you drive by. Plus, if you're exploring a new place, you can use Lens with Gemini to see what's around you in real time kind of like having a digital guide in your pocket.

The rollout starts in the next few weeks for both Android and iOS users in regions where Gemini is already available. Android Auto support is also coming soon. Landmark-based navigation is live now in the U.S., while proactive traffic updates are Android-only for the moment. Gemini-powered Lens will roll out later this month across both platforms.