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Google Maps has been adding AI features as quickly as it can, with the app most recently adding a lane-switching feature that, despite its limited compatibility, could be pretty helpful on road trips for those who are able to take advantage of it. And now, Google has now announced that they are adding even more AI features to their ubiquitous navigational app, as well as some additional improvements that should make getting around this holiday season a little bit easier. Here's a quick rundown on all the updates and changes to the app, which are rolling out in the near future for both Android and iOS, as well as Android Auto.
Gemini-powered “Know before you go” provides tips on specific locations
Never wonder about parking before your next concert
The biggest change users will notice right off the bat is a new section called “Know before you go,” which is powered by Google Gemini and is designed to help you when going to a restaurant, hotel, or performance venue by providing information about reservations, parking areas (and associated fees) and more. The information is created entirely by AI so it might not reflect recent changes (I live in Central Florida where parking rates change constantly, so I'll still be calling places in advance), but it should give drivers a good idea of what to expect when navigating to a new location.
Users can now have reviews tied to a pseudonym
You don't need to put your government name beside your next review
This latest update is also making it possible for users to leave reviews under a pseudonym. Even though these reviews will still be tied to one Google account (sorry spammers!), but if you'd rather not tell the world that you've been reviewing Elvis-themed restaurants over the past year, you can put a cutesy little fake name next to your reviews like PeanutButterandElvis so that you can leave your opinion without having to put your government name next to a one-star review of a deep-fried banana split sundae.
AI will help EV drivers get charged up
Google Gemini will predict availability so you can get powered up faster
EV drivers are also getting an AI boost from Google Gemini as a quick search for “EV chargers” in Maps will now not only pull up charging stations near you, but also projected numbers of pumps available as well, helping you get charged up, faster. Google Gemini is using historical as well as real-time charger availability to make these results as accurate as possible, which should be a great help, especially in an unfamiliar area. This update will be available next week on Android Auto and cars with Google built-in.
Finding the trendiest spot just got easier
If you wanna be where the people are, the new Explore tab is for you
Finally, Google has announced improvements to its Explore tab, with users able to swipe up to see trending and popular restaurants, activities, and attractions nearby. This new feature will be pulling in data from sources like Viator, Lonely Planet, and OpenTable, as well as local influencers, and should help users in new areas answer the age-old question “so what should we do tonight?”. This new feature will be available globally this month on Android and iOS, just in time for users to find out which places are hopping this holly jolly holiday season.
