Your New Co-Pilot: Google Maps Replaces Assistant with Gemini AI for Conversational Driving

Google has announced plans to further expand the integration of Gemini AI across its suite of services. In the latest update to Google Maps, Gemini will replace the existing Google Assistant, allowing users to interact with navigation and related features through more natural, conversational dialogue while driving.

With Gemini’s integration, users will be able to issue more complex and colloquial commands, such as, “Are there any affordable Japanese restaurants within a few miles along my route?”

More importantly, Gemini supports follow-up questions. After receiving an initial response, users can continue the conversation with queries like, “Does that restaurant have parking?” or “What dishes are most popular there?” Once a decision is made, simply saying, “Alright, let’s go there,” will prompt the system to automatically begin navigation.

During navigation, users can also ask Gemini to handle quick tasks without leaving the Google Maps interface — for instance, “Add this event to my calendar.” They can even report traffic conditions verbally by saying things like, “There’s flooding ahead,” or “I just saw an accident.”

Beyond these core conversational navigation capabilities, Google is also introducing several Gemini-powered features in the U.S. market:

• Landmark Directions – Rolling out gradually on Android and iOS.
  Navigation prompts will sound more intuitive and context-aware — replacing “Turn left in 500 feet” with “Turn left after passing Thai Siam Restaurant.” The referenced landmark will also be visually highlighted on the map for easier recognition.
• Proactive Notifications – Available initially on Android.
  Even when navigation isn’t active, Google Maps will proactively alert users to traffic disruptions or incidents along their usual routes.
• Google Maps Integration with Google Lens and Gemini – Coming soon to Android and iOS.
  Users can tap the camera icon in the search bar to activate Google Lens, point it at a storefront or building, and ask Gemini questions such as, “What is this place?” or “Why is it famous?” Gemini will then provide the relevant information directly.

Google confirmed that the primary “Gemini in Google Maps” conversational navigation experience will roll out to Android and iOS users in all regions where Gemini services are available within the coming weeks. The feature is also slated for future release on the Android Auto platform.

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