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Google Brings Gemini to Maps for Hands-Free Navigation as Assistant Toggle Set to Disappear

Google says the AI is grounded in Maps place data, with user-granted permissions for tasks like accessing Calendar.

Overview

  • Gemini now powers a conversational experience inside Google Maps, enabling open-ended queries, follow-up requests, and task chaining without leaving navigation.
  • Users can invoke Gemini by saying “Hey Google” or tapping the in-app icon, then add Calendar events with permission, share ETA on Android, and get summaries of news or emails during commutes.
  • Landmark-based guidance references visible businesses and buildings by analyzing Street View alongside data on roughly 250 million places, rolling out now in the U.S. on Android and iOS.
  • Proactive traffic alerts are beginning to arrive in the U.S. on Android even when not navigating, and drivers can report crashes, flooding, or slowdowns by voice for faster incident updates.
  • Lens built with Gemini will roll out later this month in the U.S. on Android and iOS, broader Gemini-in-navigation support expands in the coming weeks with Android Auto to follow, and code discoveries indicate Google plans to remove the option to switch back to the legacy Assistant.