Google announced on Thursday that Google Maps’ ‘Ask Maps’ feature is gaining new agentic capabilities, including food ordering, hotel bookings, and event ticket searches. The updates aim to turn Google Maps from a navigation tool into a personal assistant capable of helping users with real-world tasks. Users can now ask questions like, “Where can I order vegan avocado toast and an oat milk latte near home?” and receive recommendations from nearby restaurants. After selecting a restaurant, users can tap ‘Order online’ to place an order through platforms such as Square, Toast, or Uber Eats. The tool will add items to a cart, allowing users to review and pay for the order on the supported platform. The new features are rolling out to users in the U.S. and will soon be available in all markets where Ask Maps is available.
The launch also includes Personal Intelligence, which personalizes responses by drawing on information from a user’s Gmail and Google Calendar. For instance, users can ask, “What time will I land in Vancouver on my upcoming flight?” and receive tailored answers based on their emails and calendar data. Personal Intelligence is off by default, but users can activate it to get more relevant suggestions. Additionally, Ask Maps now remembers prior conversations, allowing users to continue planning without starting from scratch. For example, users can ask, “What activities had you suggested for my trip to Seattle?” and pick up where they left off. The app also includes a live transit widget that provides real-time updates on delays and conditions.
Google is expanding Ask Maps to include features that help users manage their travel plans more efficiently. The new agentic features are part of a broader effort to integrate AI into everyday tasks. According to the source, the updates reflect Google’s ambition to transform Google Maps into an assistant that can help users complete real-world tasks. The changes are expected to enhance user experience by providing more personalized and convenient options for travel and daily activities.
Source: techcrunch
