In a shift in how users interact with its services, Google Maps is rolling out an AI-driven conversational interface powered by the tech giant’s Gemini model. The update will reach Indian users in the coming weeks, marking Google’s broader push to embed AI into everyday digital tools.
The new feature allows users to make open-ended, natural language queries while navigating — such as checking if a destination has parking, finding services along a route, or locating alternative paths if traffic worsens — without relying on rigid voice commands.
“We are using Gemini to move closer to a conversational AI-powered map. This is possible because we are combining our most advanced Gemini model with the most comprehensive representation of the real world, which we have spent years building,” said Lalitha Ramani, General Manager, Google Maps India.
The system draws on Maps’ vast data resources and user-generated inputs but, Google emphasises, remains grounded in verified real-world data to minimise risks from AI-generated inaccuracies.
Alongside this AI layer, Google is introducing several India-specific features through institutional partnerships. A new tie-up with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will allow Maps to display near real-time updates on highway closures and maintenance works. The collaboration aims to reduce uncertainty for long-distance travellers, who often rely on fragmented or delayed information.
Separately, Maps will begin issuing alerts to drivers as they approach accident-prone zones, starting with an initial rollout in Gurugram, the Cyberabad region in Hyderabad, Chandigarh, and Faridabad.
In another upgrade, the app will display official speed limits within the navigation window across nine cities, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Hyderabad — an addition expected to promote safer driving practices.
The latest version also enhances India-first navigation aids. Two-wheeler riders, who account for a major share of India’s road users, will now see “Navatars” — customisable motorbike and scooter icons that personalise the in-app experience.
Additionally, voice guidance for flyovers will be available in nine Indian languages, helping reduce confusion at complex intersections, especially for two-wheeler commuters.
By integrating Gemini with Maps’ extensive local data and new safety-driven partnerships, Google aims to make navigation in India more intuitive, context-aware, and conversational — turning a utilitarian app into a more intelligent travel companion.
