News  Apps  October 27, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Google Maps is set to become even more indispensable for users with a slew of new features and improvements. In a recent announcement, Google revealed several enhancements aimed at making navigation and exploration more engaging and informative.

One of the standout features is the ability to locate electric vehicle (EV) charging stations more easily. With the global push towards electric mobility, this update is a significant boon for EV drivers. Now, Google Maps users can effortlessly find nearby EV charging stations, helping them plan their routes and reduce range anxiety.

In addition to assisting EV drivers, Google Maps is also becoming a hub for finding exciting things to do. A new update allows users to generate events and activities by simply typing "things to do" into the search bar. This feature presents a range of activities and recommendations, including art exhibitions and curated lists of inspiration. Google is now prioritizing a photo-first approach, providing visual results that offer a glimpse of what to expect.

This feature leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze the vast pool of photos shared by the Google Maps community. By doing so, it focuses on specific activities that match users' preferences, allowing them to discover new places and experiences effortlessly. Even those without specific plans can gain inspiration by searching "things to do" in the app.

Initially launched in France, Germany, Japan, and the UK, this feature will soon become available to users in the United States, further enriching the user experience.

Furthermore, Google is enhancing the immersive view of cities within its Maps application. This feature enables users to explore urban environments in a more detailed and engaging manner. It provides a comprehensive and lifelike 3D visualization, contributing to a more immersive navigation experience.

Google Maps isn't stopping at visuals alone; it's integrating artificial intelligence into its Lens feature. With "Search with Live View", users can select an icon and hold up their phones to scan the area. The AI-powered feature provides information about nearby landmarks, offering a dynamic and informative way to explore the world.

These updates come as Google continues its efforts to incorporate AI across its platforms. From the launch of ChatGPT and Bard, its chatbot, to the ongoing experimentation with AI technologies, Google aims to stay at the forefront of innovation in the tech industry.

Notably, Google introduced a beta test of its Search Generative Experience (SGE) in August, which employs generative AI to show users what a product looks like during a search. Although SGE has not been launched to the general public yet, Google's CEO, Sundar Pichai, emphasized the potential of AI to open new opportunities for content discovery during a recent Q3 earnings call.

With these new features, Google Maps is poised to become an even more essential tool for users, offering not only navigational support but also the ability to discover exciting activities and places in an immersive and visually rich way.

(Cover image by Google)