Google Maps now shows directions with real-world landmarks
Google Maps is rolling out some cool new AI features to make getting around easier.
The big one: instead of just showing how far you are from your turn, Maps now points out real-world landmarks—think restaurants or gas stations—so you know exactly where to go.
This uses Gemini's vision AI, which checks Street View images to confirm over 250 million spots.
Maps can now answer questions like 'What's the vibe here?'
With Gemini built into Google Lens in Maps, you can ask questions like "What is this place and why is it popular?" or "What's the vibe here?" right in the search bar.
Plus, if there's a major jam or road closure on your usual route, Maps will give you a heads up—even if you haven't started navigation.
The new features are powered by Gemini
All these updates combine image analysis and live data for more helpful directions and info.
Landmark-based navigation is rolling out now in the US for Android and iOS, and Gemini-powered Lens will launch later this month—so if you're there, your daily commute might just have gotten a lot smoother.