Key Highlights

• The users will be able to locate places on Google Maps with generative AI.
• The feature is rolled out to select users in the US.
• The LLMs analyse Maps’ detailed information about 250 million locations on Google Maps to generate results.

Google has officially released exciting new AI upgrades to Google Maps. The new generative AI feature will be helpful to users in assisting them in finding new locations. The upgrade will provide customised recommendations based on each user’s need using large language models. The LLMs analyse Maps’ detailed information about 250 million locations on Google Maps and contributions from over 300 million users to generate travel recommendations. Google announced via a blog post which says, “Today, we’re introducing a new way to discover places with generative AI to help you do just that — no matter how specific, niche or broad your needs might be. Simply say what you’re looking for and our large-language models (LLMs) will analyze Maps’ detailed information about more than 250 million places and trusted insights from our community of over 300 million contributors to quickly make suggestions for where to go.” According to the company, Google Maps’ generative AI feature will be accessible to select Local Guides in the US, who are some of the most active and passionate members of the Maps community. Also Read: Apple Races to Build Its Own Generative AI Framework

How to locate places on Google Maps with generative AI?

If you are new to a place and want to shop for souvenirs for your loved one just ask Maps what you’re looking for the AI model will analyze Maps’ rich information about nearby businesses and places along with photos, ratings and reviews from the Maps community to give you trustworthy suggestions. The results are organised into useful categories such as clothing stores, vinyl shops and flea markets — along with photo carousels and review summaries that highlight why a place might be interesting for you to visit. Also Read: Google Bard Vs Google AI Search: Everything you need to know Now when you get tired after shopping, you will also feel hungry. In that case, just continue the conversation with a follow-up question like “How about lunch?” Maps will suggest places that match the vibe you are looking for, from there, you may add the locations to a list, share them with others, and can also revisit them in the future. As per Google, these AI-powered results are particularly helpful if you need to make last-minute changes to your plans or are feeling spontaneous. “For example, if you’re out and about and it starts to rain, just ask Maps for “activities for a rainy day” to get suggestions for indoor activities. You’ll get helpful suggestions like comedy shows or movie theatres. If you’re looking for options the whole family can enjoy, ask a follow-up question like, “What about options for kids?”. You’ll see places like bowling alleys, children’s museums or indoor playgrounds depending on where you are, along with highlights based on reviews from people who have been there.”