Google revealed a host of new AI-powered features and services during its Google I/O event in May. Among those promised was a series of new AI capabilities for Google Maps, including an exciting Immersive View feature that would provide a birds-eye view of your route.
Google announced that “Immersive View for Routes” and a few other AI features will be included in a new Maps update. The search engine giant is also integrating Google Lens to Maps and improving navigation with more real-world data.
Users will be able to preview their route step by step whether driving, walking, or cycling with the new Immersive View for Routes. According to Google’s blog, the feature began rolling out this week in select locations such as Amsterdam, Barcelona, Dublin, Florence, Las Vegas, London, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paris, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tokyo, and Venice for both Android and iOS.
Immersive View will provide a panoramic birds-eye view of your route from the start to the end, along with turn-by-turn directions. Users can also use the time slider to plan their route and determine when to head out based on useful information in Immersive View, such as simulated traffic and weather conditions.
Google Maps will also have a Lens tool to assist users in understanding their surroundings in real-time. Formerly known as Search with Live View, this feature adds Google Lens to the Maps search box.
You may open your camera in Maps and obtain information on nearby stores, restaurants, or ATMs with a quick tap of the Lens icon. The Lens in Maps feature is now available in over 50 new cities, including Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, Sao Paulo, and Taipei.
Also Read:
Google Maps navigation is also improving, offering more real-world information, according to Google. Updated colors throughout the map, more realistic buildings along your route, and improved lane information are now available for navigation. According to Google, these changes will begin rolling out in 12 countries, including the United States, Canada, France, and Germany, in the coming months.
Additionally, EV owners driving vehicles equipped with Google built-in will now receive more useful charging station information, such as if a charger is compatible with their vehicle. This week, this update will be available internationally for iOS and Android in regions where EV charging station information is available.
