Google Maps Gets Smarter! How Gemini is Changing the Game for Users 🛍️

Google Maps tips & tricks
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Hey there, fellow explorers and Local Guides! :waving_hand: Google Maps has gotten even faster and helpful with its new Gemini integration! Forget endless scrolling through reviews – now you can simply “Ask Maps about this place” and get instant, AI-powered answers.

Ask Maps: Your New Best Friend :handshake:

Imagine you’re checking out a new restaurant :hamburger: and want to know if they have outdoor seating. Or perhaps you’re a Local Guide :person_curly_hair: exploring a museum :classical_building: and need to know about accessibility. Instead of hunting through reviews, just ask! Gemini analyzes tons of data, including Local Guide contributions, to give you quick, reliable answers.

Why This is Amazing for Local Guides :glowing_star:

  • Your contributions shine! Gemini uses your reviews, photos, and insights to answer user questions, making your efforts even more impactful.
  • Get specific answers fast: No more sifting through irrelevant information. Get straight to the details you need.
  • Explore like a pro: Whether you’re looking for a venue for a rainy day :umbrella_with_rain_drops: or the best vintage shops :dress:, Gemini helps you discover hidden gems.

Some Ways This Tool Can Help Niche Customers & Hesitant Explorers

  • Do they serve vegan or gluten free options? (Great for people who are nervous to try new locales).
  • Do they have an :wheelchair_symbol: accessible entrance, seating, and :restroom: restrooms? (Eliminate barrier and foster inclusion).
  • Do they have :headphone: sensory hours at the Children’s Museum (great for parents of autistic children)

Shoppers, Rejoice! :partying_face:

  • Make informed decisions: Quickly understand a place’s vibe, amenities, and more before you even arrive.
  • Save precious time: Find exactly what you’re looking for without the endless scroll.
  • Discover new favorites: Gemini’s suggestions help you explore local businesses and find unique experiences.

Gemini in Maps: A Win-Win! :tada:

The “Ask Maps about this place” feature is more than just a cool new tool – it’s a way to connect Local Guides and shoppers, making Google Maps even more helpful and user-friendly.

So, get out there, explore, ask questions, and let Gemini be your guide! Happy mapping! :world_map:

Have you used Gemini in Maps before? What are your thoughts or tips? Share :backhand_index_pointing_down: below

UPDATE:

After seeing comments from Local Guides around the :globe_showing_americas:, I realize not everyone has these features. Below is an example card from Gemini in my local Japanese restaurant…

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If I were to tap “Is This Place Wheelchair Accessible?” You get to see a review from dear ole me answering the question. Cool right?

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Wow, this is truly exciting!
The integration of Gemini into Google Maps feels like a big leap forward.
I really love the idea of getting personalized suggestions — especially when exploring a new city or trying to find hidden gems nearby.
It’s like having a smart, helpful local guide right in your pocket!
Thanks for sharing this great update — I can’t wait to try it more in my own travels. :raising_hands:
Greetings from Türkiye! 🇹🇷

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Gemini usage seems to be expanding across Google’s product lines. can’t wait to try it out. thanks for the update @JordanBurleson

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@JordanBurleson This is a really great addition to Google Maps :glowing_star: and will help millions for sure. I am now more excited to make impactful and detailed reviews and take the best possible photos and videos. :grinning_face::white_check_mark::dizzy:

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@JordanBurleson How cool to hear about this new interaction.
Another great reason to leave our reviews even more detailed.

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@JordanBurleson Is this using Gemini to ask about a certain place, or using Maps and asking the question in there? Also wondering if this is a US only feature at the moment or not.. :sweat_smile: because I don’t quite see any Gemini branded integration in my Maps

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You may be right, @AdrianLunsong . Maybe I’m one of the chosen few? I posted the user experience in the bottom of my post after your comment to show it in action.

I am a beta Maps app user and do have Gemini enabled in my chrome, photos app, etc. So maybe Google is giving me the keys to the car? :joy:

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I agree @GasparKaren! Do you have it live in your version of Maps?!

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Couldn’t agree more @marcorp , @BudionoS and @vahit.ipek! Do you all see it in your Maps app currently?

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@JordanBurleson yes, I live in the states (NJ).

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@JordanBurleson No, unfortunately it is not available for my version. Maybe it is still in testing and only available to some, or I don’t know if the style of the device influences it.

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I can’t see it now, I think the update hasn’t reached me yet @JordanBurleson . Thank you for the information, I will try again after the update.

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Gemini has proved to be a game changer for Local Guides and Google Maps users. Excellent post on the extensive benefits of integrating Gemini with Maps. Thanks for sharing @JordanBurleson

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Very interesting features @JordanBurleson, I need to try this one!

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