Google has just announced the arrival of several new features on Google Maps. Directly harnessing the power of AI, these tools promise “a new way to search and explore” according to the web giant.
It was in May 2022 that Google first introduced new AI-based features to its main services. At Google Maps, the Mountain View firm caused a sensation with Immersive View, a stunning technology that combines billions of aerial and Street View images to display “a digital and enriched version of the world”.
After an initial deployment in certain European metropolises in March 2023, the company began to gradually integrate Immersive View in routes. Well, the American giant is continuing the operation and has just announced the arrival of Immersive View for routes in Amsterdam, Miami, New York, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, Venice and finally Paris on Android and iOS.
Routes get a makeover with Immersive View
Let’s take an example, if you want to find a bike route to get to the Louvre museum, simply request a suitable route and press Immersive View preview to see your route in 3D from start to finish. “You’ll be able to view highly detailed visual instructions and use the time slider to view useful information, such as simulated traffic or weather conditions throughout your journey, to better plan your journey. writes Google.
The Californian company also confirms improvements in terms of Lens in Maps. Thanks to AI and augmented reality, Lens in Maps (formerly called Search with Live View) is able display lots of useful information about your environment such as public transport stops, banks, restaurants, cafes or even nearby stores. Note that this functionality is already accessible in Paris. Starting this week, it will be available in 50 additional cities including Austin, Las Vegas, Sao Paulo and Rome.
More information on charging stations
Let’s continue with another feature intended primarily for owners of electric cars. If Google Maps already displays a lot of information on charging stations, the company wants to go even further. From now on, users on Android and iOS will be able to know whether a terminal is compatible with their vehicle and know its charging time.
We conclude this overview with something new in the search results on Google Maps. Starting this week, users will first get photo results after a specific query (a monument, a restaurant, a stadium, etc.). “With this visual list of places, you will be able to discover new places that perfectly match what you are looking for,” explains Google. All these new features based on AI will land on Google Maps within the week according to the manufacturer.