Every day, millions of users rely on Google Maps whether they are driving a car, riding a two-wheeler, or taking public transportation. In a country as diverse and complex as India, Maps has become the default way to explore a new city, get to the office, find historical sites, and more. And now, Google Maps is getting smarter, thanks to a new set of features announced Thursday for the world’s most popular navigation system. This includes Gemini’s conversational AI capabilities integrated directly into the Maps app, enabling more natural, hands-free interactions, as well as India-specific features like accident-prone area alerts and easier management of metro tickets via Google Wallet.
Here’s everything new in Google Maps.
Hands-free navigation is coming to Google Maps
Google has been gradually adding AI features to Maps over the past few months, and now the company has updated Google Maps with two new features: route planning and navigation, powered by Gemini AI technology. Perhaps the biggest change is the arrival of Gemini’s on-the-go conversation mode. Drivers can now ask questions such as “Where is the nearest petrol pump?” or “What’s the parking like there?”, all without having to type or click. Gemini also has the ability to access other Google apps, like Calendar and Gmail, so users can add event reminders to their schedule while also talking to the chatbot about navigation.
Gemini will rely on data from about 250 million places stored in the Google Maps database, which has collected reviews over the past 20 years. For example, Maps uses reviews and web content to provide the most useful advice about a place before you get there. So, if you’re planning to visit Dilli Haat in Delhi, the Maps app can offer tips like “It’s okay to haggle on prices” and “The momos at Nagaland Stall are highly rated.”
Google says the Gemini-powered navigation system will be released on Android and iOS in the coming weeks.
Gemini integration turns Google Maps into a true voice navigation assistant. (Image credit: Google)
Early warning of traffic jams
The new proactive traffic alert feature will notify users about upcoming traffic jams, road closures and other disruptions, even if navigation is not active. These alerts will be rolled out first in India on Android devices in the coming weeks, starting with Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. This feature will work across highways and main roads in these cities.
Accident-prone area alerts and official speed limits
Another India-specific feature coming to Google Maps is alerts for accident-prone areas, which Google says has been designed in partnership with local authorities. This feature provides visual and audio alerts when drivers approach high-risk areas, helping them drive more safely. It is currently rolling out to Android users in Gurugram, Cyberabad, Chandigarh and Faridabad.
In India, Google Maps will now display official speed limits while navigating, using data from local traffic authorities. The feature appears next to the speedometer in the app and is being rolled out to Android and iOS users in nine Indian cities, including Faridabad, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Noida and Ghaziabad.
Story continues below this ad
Official highway information
Google Maps has partnered with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to provide reliable, near-real-time information on highway conditions, including road closures and repairs. The partnership also helps display details about roadside amenities such as public restrooms, restaurants and gas stations for a more reliable navigation experience.
In India, Android users can now save purchased tickets directly to Google Wallet. (Image credit: Google)
Manage your metro tickets easier with Google Wallet
In India, Android users can now save purchased tickets directly to Google Wallet. This enables seamless access to tickets within maps in cities including Delhi, Bangalore, Kochi, Chennai, and soon Mumbai.
New voice navigation for bridges
Another India-specific feature coming to Google Maps is voice navigation for bridges in nine Indian languages, which provides hands-free guidance to users, especially those who are two-wheeler drivers. The feature will be rolled out to Android and iOS users in the coming weeks.
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
(Tags for translation)Google Maps
