Overview
- Google Maps is adding Gemini for conversational, hands-free help that can answer multi-step queries, add calendar events, summarize emails or news, and take voice crash reports during navigation.
- New navigation tools include landmark-based directions that reference visible places instead of distances, proactive traffic alerts for common routes, and a Lens with Gemini camera mode to ask about nearby spots.
- The Maps upgrades begin rolling out to Android and iOS in the coming weeks, with Lens with Gemini slated for the U.S. later this month and Android Auto support planned.
- App code spotted by Android-watchers indicates Google is removing the setting to switch back to the legacy Assistant, signaling an imminent server-side move to make Gemini the default.
- An APK teardown suggests a developing Deep Research mode that could tap Gmail, Drive, or Chat for personalized insights, which is not yet live and would require user permission; Google says Maps responses are grounded in its places data and not used to target ads.