Google has introduced a range of new artificial intelligence-powered features for its Gemini-based Ask Maps assistant, enabling users to order food, monitor live public transport delays and plan trips more efficiently.
The update allows users to complete multi-step tasks using natural language. For example, a user can ask Maps to order a specific meal for pickup along their route home. The assistant searches for nearby restaurants, lets users choose a location and adds the requested dish to the cart for final review and checkout.
The food ordering feature is rolling out with restaurant technology partners Square and Toast, while integration with Uber Eats will be added soon.
Smarter travel planning
Ask Maps can now help travellers compare hotel prices and availability in real time while suggesting nearby attractions and activities.
Google has also introduced live transit updates through a new transit widget that provides real-time information on delays affecting buses, trains, subways and ferry services.
Personalized recommendations
A new Personal Intelligence feature allows Ask Maps to connect with Gmail—if users choose to opt in—to access upcoming travel plans and provide more personalized assistance.
The Gmail integration is disabled by default, and users must explicitly enable it. The assistant can also remember previous conversations to improve responses when conversation history is turned on.
Community contributions
Google has added a conversational editing feature that enables users to suggest local tips and updates. Ask Maps can review and share helpful contributions with the wider Maps community.
Global expansion
Ask Maps is expanding to Australia, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Japan and Mexico, as well as more than 150 countries and territories where English is supported.
However, some capabilities—including food ordering, hotel discovery, event recommendations and community contributions—are initially limited to users in the United States, with broader international availability planned in the future.
The live transit widget, conversation memory and personalized responses are rolling out across all regions where Ask Maps is currently available on the web and in the Google Maps app for iOS.
