My navigation has become much better, as Google says ‘Gemini in Navigation’ supports more
What you need to know
- Google’s Gemini in Navigation expands its support for manual assistance to include walking and cycling.
- Users on foot can ask AI about their location, and local shops that might be worth their time.
- Previous updates to Maps have included enhancements to Gemini that bring better insight into its directions, such as using landmarks to tell you when to turn and more.
Google is launching a new Gemini feature that aims to make users happy when they have questions about places to go.
Today (Jan 29), Google announced the launch of “Gemini in Navigation,” which puts the company’s Maps app front and center. The company originally pitched this feature as a passenger, an artificial assistant that sits next to you (or your dashboard) while driving. However, Gemini in Navigation now extends its services to people on foot or by bike.
In its short changelog, Google says that Gemini’s support for walking and cycling brings its intelligence with questions, follow-up questions, and recommendations.
Before navigating a trip with Google Maps, users can ask Gemini about their location, restaurants, and more. Google says users can expand on this initial question by following up, such as “what site has the highest ranking?” Similarly, if you’re cycling, users can ask Gemini in Maps about their ETA, and they can tell the AI to send a text to a contact.
Finally, Gemini is said to understand the places you pass through and deliver recommendations “based on your route.” Gemini in Navigation supports walking and cycling starting today (Jan 29) for Android and iOS worldwide.
AI in maps
Google continued to use Gemini in its Maps app for mobile and cars with Android Auto. Late last year, the company launched a Gemini-focused boost for Maps that improved its navigation based on history to help users. Basically, instead of “turn left 500 ft,” users will now see Gemini include visuals in its directions. If there’s a gas station there or a convenience store, we’ll say “turn left at 7/11.”
That same update also included active traffic alerts and a new Lens function. The update before this one for Android Auto saw Google Maps bring the required “Report” button for drivers. “Suggested directions” have been fixed, as they will no longer open automatically and interfere with what you are viewing.
Android Central Take
Considering Gemini in Navigation was originally released for drivers, bringing it to other modes of transportation makes sense. In big cities, it’s always nice to have something to lean on, especially if it’s somewhere you rarely go. I’ve had times like that where I’m trying to find an event or a new store that’s open, but I’ve never visited that place. To know that Gemini now supports some hands-on assistance, I feel more confident, since I won’t have to keep looking at my phone and hit my head on something or someone.
