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Google Maps Begins Rolling Out Gemini for Conversational Navigation

The phased release replaces Assistant in Maps with Gemini for hands-free guidance, with availability starting on a limited basis.

Overview

  • Gemini is taking over voice control inside Maps on Android and iOS, supporting driving, transit, walking and cycling with the existing “Hey Google” hotword.
  • The assistant handles multi-step requests and cross-service tasks, such as finding places along a route and adding Calendar events with permission.
  • Landmark-based directions that reference visible places are starting to appear in the U.S., using data from hundreds of millions of locations and Street View imagery.
  • Proactive alerts for closures, crashes and heavy traffic are beginning to roll out in the U.S. on Android, including when users are not actively navigating.
  • Availability remains limited as the rollout proceeds in stages, with Lens built with Gemini due later this month and Android Auto support to follow.