Google Maps navigation with landmarks
If you use Google Maps to navigate, then you must be dreaming of the various directions. Turn right after 150 metres is one of the phrases you might hear. This way of navigating works through distances, but gives no further indication, while that can sometimes come in handy. Work is now underway on a new way of spoken navigation that includes landmarks and landmarks.
This means you will be told, for example, "In 200 metres, turn right, after the Thai restaurant". This combines information from Maps and Gemini to help you better. It looks at, for example, famous buildings, petrol stations, restaurants, traffic lights, stop signs and more details. We will have to wait for it in Europe, though, it seems. For now, the feature is only there for the United States.
Gemini
Gemini is also getting a more prominent role in Google Maps. In the mapping service, you can use the AI service as a conversation partner, replacing the Google Assistant. Through voice, or via the Gemini icon, you can ask questions about your route. For example, you can search for restaurants with popular dishes, parking or charging stations for your electric car. Users can also report traffic situations along the way, think an accident or weather conditions. All this by voice. The feature also supports additional tasks, such as scheduling appointments, sharing arrival times and summarising e-mails. Results are clearly displayed in an information panel with buttons to add a stop, for example.
Improved traffic notifications are also coming in the US. Google Maps can proactively send notifications for major traffic jams, unexpected road closures or any other delays. Even if you are not navigating.
The rollout will take place in the coming weeks in regions where Gemini is already available, with Android Auto support in development. There is no specific information for a rollout in Europe.
