Only a few hours ago we told you about the fact that, in the future, on Google Maps a first-time link to the functionality will be inserted Ask Mapswhich is a part of the Gemini integration.
The assistant based on artificial intelligence, a bit like what has now happened in almost the entire ecosystem of Google-branded apps and services, is preparing to definitively make us forget about Google Assistant even in the maps and navigation app, aiming to significantly improve the user experience during navigation.
Google Maps: farewell to Assistant seems close
Always analyzing the version 25.41.03.815390258 beta of Google Maps for Android, the usual AssembleDebug has discovered another novelty related to Gemini that goes beyond the introduction of the button Ask Maps in the carousel of buttons immediately below the search bar.
The insider managed to activate an additional piece of the Assistant integration in the maps and navigation app. In this case, Gemini replaces Assistant during navigation (via Android Authority).
By touching the icon with the microphone, which still has the typical Google colors, it will give way to the icon with the typical Gemini sparkle and will allow the user to make requests that Assistant was not able to satisfy during navigation.
For example, users will be able to ask Gemini to change the route to avoid highways or toll roads. The process will be automatic and will thus prevent users from being distracted from the road to interact with the smartphone. The assistant will also be able to answer questions not related to the route or navigation.
In the Google Maps settings, within the section Navigationthe voice “Ok Google” detection will be replaced by the voice Gemini which will refer to the settings within the Gemini app (which in turn lives within the Google App).
This potential is not yet available to users (not even to beta testers) but, when it is distributed, it will represent an important improvement, especially when we take advantage of navigation while driving so as not to leave the steering wheel. The fact that it is fully functional suggests that the release could take place soon.
How to download or update the app
To avoid the risk of missing the latest news arriving on Google Maps just update (or download) the app via the Google Play Store, searching for the app or reaching the dedicated page by tapping on the badge below.
If you are interested in previewing the new features that will arrive in the app in the future, you can participate in the app’s Beta Program (reachable via this link) or, if the program is complete, proceed to download and manually install the APK files of the latest beta versions available from the portal APKMirror (page reachable at this link).
