Users will be able to benefit from artificial intelligence’s suggestions for the perfect destination and route.
Google Maps is getting an upgrade that will involve the addition of generative AI technology. The goal is to provide users with an easier way to find new places around them and discover the ideal location for what they’re seeking.
The technology will help users to refine their searches to a degree beyond what was previously available.
Instead of searching for general concepts such as a sporting equipment store or coffee shop, generative AI will make it possible for users to get more specific about what they want. For instance, a user could search Google Maps for “modern artistic places in Manhattan” or “places for comic book fans in LA.”
Once the request is made, the artificial intelligence models conduct an analysis of the information already available in Maps, such as descriptions, ratings, reviews, photos, and other sources of info, and provide suggestions that meet the criteria requested.
The more generic a request, the broader the results provided by the Google Maps generative AI.
For example, “modern artistic places in Manhattan” could bring results ranging from coffee shops with a certain vibe to museums. From there, a user can further refine the type of results they want to receive. Each location provided in the results will offer a description of why the Maps artificial intelligence identified it as a location appropriate to the request.
Users can continue to make additional requests of Maps to narrow down results or can continue on their way to one or several of the recommended locations.
That said, if a user doesn’t really have anything specific in mind but simply wants to get out and experience something, they can ask for locations such as “places to go with young kids” or “something to do on a rainy day.”
Google Maps’ generative AI has already started rolling out in the US to select Local Guides. The feature will be tested out with those individuals first, before it starts rolling out to a broader audience and to more locations around the world.