Google Maps Becomes Gemini’s Proving Ground for Real-World AI

Generative AI moves off the screen and onto the road. Google announced Wednesday that it has begun embedding its Gemini models in Maps, signaling how personal, phone-based navigation has become the next testing ground for AI in the real world.

Google described the update as an effort to make navigation more conversational and context-aware, allowing drivers to complete multi-step tasks by voice, such as finding a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along a road, checking nearby parking, or adding an event to a calendar.

“There is nothing worse than being surprised by a sudden stop. Now, Google Maps can give you a warning, even if you are not actively navigating,” said Google in a declaration. “It proactively alerts you to disruptions on the road ahead, such as when there’s an unexpected road closure or heavy traffic.”

Gemini also changes how navigation sounds. Instead of abstract cues like “turn right in 500 feet,” drivers now hear instructions tied to recognizable landmarks — like turn around after a specific restaurant or gas station — with those locations highlighted on the screen. Google said the system draws from about 250 million mapped locations and Street View images to prioritize landmarks that people can actually see while driving.

Once the user arrives, Gemini remains active through a new “Lens built with Gemini” feature that allows them to point their phone camera at nearby shops, restaurants or landmarks and ask conversational questions about what the place is known for, or what the atmosphere feels like.

The feature starts rolling out this month in the US on Android and iOS.

The automotive artificial intelligence market – including navigation, sensing and voice assistants – is expected to grow from about $19 billion in 2025 to approx. $38 billion by 2030, according to industry data. In-car voice assistants have been valued at over $3 billion this year, driven by the demand for context-aware interactions rather than simple infotainment commands.