"AI has really supercharged the way we map," according to Chris Phillips, vice president and general manager of Google's Geo team.
In an effort to revolutionize the way users interact with its platform, Google Maps is introducing and expanding a slew of artificial intelligence–driven features intended to give Google Maps an edge and potentially move it closer to Google Search. The additions include an immersive view for route planning, enhanced electric vehicle charging-station details and a more intuitive search experience.
The updates will make Google Maps a platform where users can not only get directions but also explore and discover new experiences. One of the features is the Immersive View for routes. Google said it "uses AI to fuse together billions of Street View and aerial images."
The feature provides users with a 3D preview of their journey, whether they're driving, walking or cycling. It's designed to give users a comprehensive understanding of their route from start to finish, including a visual guide for turns and simulated traffic and weather conditions. Immersive View is now available in 15 cities, including New York, Miami, London and Paris.
An upgraded search feature in Maps allows users to search "for specific things like the best place to find 'animal latte art' or 'pumpkin patch with my dog,'" by providing photo results sorted by AI from billions of users.
Users will also be able to tap on a photo and navigate to the location. In addition to imagery upgrades, Lens in Maps, formerly called Search With Live View, provides 3D renderings and searches of the area around your original search for things like local coffee shops, train stations and ATMs. This feature is available in 50 more cities.
For electric vehicle owners, Google Maps is addressing "charging anxiety," which can arise because approximately 25 percent of chargers are nonoperational at any given time. To alleviate this anxiety, Google Maps will display when a charger was last used (to ensure functionality), its compatibility and speed (fast, medium or slow).
Google is also enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of its navigation by updating the map colors, adding more realistic building depictions and improving lane details for complex highway exits. These improvements are slated to roll out in 12 countries, including the U.S., Canada, France and Germany.
In a media call this week, Phillips summarized Google's vision, saying, "The foundation of all the work we do is to build the most comprehensive, fresh, accurate information to represent the real world. This is key for us, and we like to talk about the map as being alive."
In a blog post about the Google Maps update, he said, "AI continues to play a pivotal role in bringing how we're building innovative experiences for people around the world."
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