Google Maps Enhances Discovery with Generative AI Features

Google Maps is set to unveil an exciting generative AI feature designed to enhance your exploration of new locations, as announced by the company today.

Leveraging advanced large language models (LLMs), this innovative function evaluates over 250 million listings on Google Maps alongside insights from 300 million Local Guides. It curates personalized suggestions tailored to your preferences. For example, if you're interested in finding unique thrift shops in San Francisco, simply search for “places with a vintage vibe in SF.” Google Maps will respond with shopping recommendations categorized effectively, complemented by engaging photo carousels and concise review summaries. This new feature aims to provide a more conversational experience compared to traditional search methods. If you pose follow-up queries such as “How about lunch?” the AI will seamlessly suggest restaurants that align with your vintage vibe search, like an authentic diner.

The company asserts that this feature will deliver recommendations for even the most specialized or unique inquiries. The early access phase is launching this week across the U.S., specifically for select Local Guides—Google’s engaged community that provides valuable reviews, facts, and images to assist other users in navigating diverse locations. Broader access for additional users will follow soon, though details on availability in other countries are still pending.

Last month, Google enhanced Maps to function more like a versatile search tool, rolling out several AI-driven features, including visual search results and tailored suggestions for general queries like “things to do.” This new generative AI feature marks a significant advancement in Maps’ evolution from a simple navigation tool to a preferred platform for discovering exciting new places.

“This is just the beginning of how we’re supercharging Maps with generative AI,” Google emphasized in today’s blog update.

Google Maps is undergoing transformative AI-driven search enhancements, an upgraded navigation interface, and more.