You can now create interactive projects using Google Maps data
What's the story
Google Maps has introduced a suite of advanced artificial intelligence (AI) tools, including a builder agent and an Model Context Protocol (MCP) server. The new features are designed to help developers and users create interactive projects using data and code from Google Maps. Google is leveraging its Gemini models to power these innovative capabilities.
Tool introduction
Builder agent creates map-based prototypes from text descriptions
The builder agent is a unique tool that creates an interactive map-based prototype from just a text description. For example, you can ask it to "create a Street View tour of a city," or "list pet-friendly hotels in the city." Once the code is generated by this AI-powered tool, you can export it and test your preview project using your own API keys.
Feature expansion
Styling agent and Grounding Lite
Along with the builder agent, Google Maps has also introduced a styling agent. This feature lets users customize their maps according to a specific style format or theme, making it easier for brands to create color-coded maps. The tech giant is also launching Grounding Lite, which enables developers to ground their own AI models using MCP, a standard that connects AI assistants with external data sources.
New integrations
A look at Contextual View
Google is bringing Contextual View, a low-code Google Maps component that provides visual understanding to users. The feature can show a list, map view, or 3D display as an answer to questions like "How far is the nearest grocery store?"
Navigation upgrade
Voice-based navigation on Google Maps
Google is also working to bring more Gemini-powered features for Maps on the consumer side. Last week, it announced that users can now use Gemini hands-free with Maps for navigation. The tech giant has rolled out voice-based navigation powered by Gemini on Google Maps for Android and iOS, with plans to expand the rollout to more regions outside US.