Google’s Ask Maps Lets You Get More Done Conversationally, Thanks to AI

Google has recently enhanced its Ask Maps feature with AI capabilities, making it more efficient at handling complex tasks through conversation. Now equipped with Gemini, Ask Maps can perform multistep tasks that would typically require manual research. Initially introduced with simple capabilities, allowing users to ask for locations more naturally, the upgrade now includes a range of advanced features.

For instance, users can request a well-lit tennis court for evening play. The new enhancements make the feature even more intuitive.

Google is rolling out these capabilities gradually, starting with the US but expanding to include Australia, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, and 150 more territories. While some features are initially available in the US, others are accessible globally where Ask Maps is supported.

One notable capability is the ability to order food without navigating through menus. By simply asking for items like avocado toast and oat milk latte, Ask Maps can locate suitable restaurants, add the desired items to your cart, and facilitate checkout. Google has partnered with Toast for this new ordering experience, with UberEats set to join in the future.

Additionally, Ask Maps can streamline hotel searches. By specifying the type of hotel, location, and desired amenities, the feature provides a list of matching options. In a demonstration, a user requested comedy shows or live music near their workplace, and Ask Maps provided relevant listings upon receiving permission to access the user's Google Maps data. Users can opt to enable this feature, which currently requires Gmail access, though integration with Google Calendar is pending.

The feature also retains conversation history, helping users recall previously researched locations. For example, if a user searched for a specific restaurant and wishes to find it again, Ask Maps can retrieve past suggestions without manual searching. This feature respects user privacy, requiring enabled history settings.

Google Maps users can now easily submit corrections or closure notifications directly through the chat interface. Once submitted, Google reviews and approves these changes, which may take a few days before they're visible on the platform.