Google’s Next-Gen AI in Maps Can Help You Find Places to Go and Things to Do

What do you want to know

• Google says new AI-powered generative search features are coming soon for “select” local guides in the US.
• AI can help users find locations based on their queries or predefined options.
• Results will be displayed based on category, review summaries, business photos, and more.

Google details new ways generative AI is being configured to improve the search experience on Maps. According to a keyword job, Google says users can ask a question to its LLM (large language model), which will then draw on all the location data stored in Maps to come up with a relevant suggestion. Starting in the United States, users will soon have the option to write their query or choose from a selection of predefined queries.

Using the example of “places with a vintage vibe in SF,” Google says Maps’ AI will draw on information about businesses and places around you that might meet that criteria. Additionally, the AI ​​results will extract data from photos, reviews, and ratings.

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Once the result is provided, Maps displays them in specific categories, such as “clothing stores, vinyl stores, and flea markets.” Like tapping on a store in Maps, the AI-powered results will feature photos of the business and summaries of current reviews.

Queries can be continued with a follow-up question, with Google offering the example of searching for lunch but with a vintage theme. Again, the AI ​​will try to match nearby places to your interests. The bookmark tag next to place names allows users to save places to a list and share a place with others.

Google then highlights AI’s ability to handle broader interests like “rainy day activities.” Additionally, users can continue with “What about options for children?” » Many predefined suggestions based on Maps AI also follow this general query trend.

As mentioned earlier, these features are rolling out to Google Maps for US users. However, it starts with “select”. Local guides. These people are usually local reviewers in a given area who know the best places to go and offer their unique take on establishments. Maps’ latest experiments will likely undergo intense testing before the general public sees them.

Google is bringing more discovery methods to Maps, like its latest feature that helps users find food items. Following its January update, the app can automatically notify users about the food they’re looking at in restaurant photos taken by other customers. The app will also attempt to tag items with relevant health labels such as “vegetarian” or “popular.”

Another update sees users notice a 3D view on the navigation side of Maps. While mobile users have reported its appearance, drivers using Android Auto dashboards have also spotted it.