Highlights
- Google Maps now offers “know before you go” tips for places like restaurants and hotels, using Gemini AI to surface dress codes, parking info, and more.
- The Explore tab is redesigned to highlight trending local spots, while EV drivers get predictive charger availability based on real-time and historical data.
- Users can post business reviews using nicknames and avatars with Google’s protection tools.
Caption – Google Maps introduces new Holiday features. (Image credit – Google)
Google has announced four new Google Maps features designed to help users save time and stay better prepared during the busy holiday season. Introducing the updates in a blog post, Maryann Bright, Chief Holiday Officer, said the new additions aim to make planning, exploring, and navigating crowded outings more seamless. Here’s a roundup of the new features.
Get insider tips built with Gemini
Google Maps now includes “know before you go” insights when users search for places like restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues. These insider tips provide useful details such as dress codes, parking availability, reservation methods, secret menu items, and more.
The platform uses Gemini to analyse online information including user reviews, and highlights the most relevant points. Each insight can be tapped for deeper context.
Update Explore Tab
The Explore tab has also been redesigned to make it easier for users to find trending spots nearby. By swiping up, users can view popular restaurants, activities, and attractions gaining traction in their area.
This includes newly opened cafés, local art galleries, and other hotspots. The tab also features curated lists from Viator, Lonely Planet, OpenTable, and local creators such as Sistersnacking.
Check EV Charging Availability
For EV drivers, Google Maps now predicts how many chargers are likely to be available when they arrive at a station. This new AI-powered feature builds on real-time status updates already available from networks like Tesla Superchargers and Electrify America.
By analysing historical and live data, Maps helps drivers avoid long queues and plan more efficient charging stops during road trips.
Post Local Business Review Using Nicknames
Users can also now post local business reviews using a nickname and profile picture instead of their real name. This gives reviewers the flexibility to share honest feedback such as praising a bakery for a five-star experience without revealing their personal identity.
Google confirms that its review protection tools will continue monitoring for fake or suspicious activity, and all reviews remain linked to the user’s Google Account internally.
New Google Maps Feature – Availability
- Insider tips – Rolling out now in the U.S. on Android and iOS
- Updated Explore tab – Launching globally this month on Android and iOS
- Predicted EV charger availability – Rolling out next week on Android Auto and vehicles with Google built-in, covering hundreds of thousands of charging stations worldwide
- Nickname support for review – Rolling out globally this month on Android, iOS, and desktop
FAQs
Q1. What are the new AI-powered “insider tips” in Google Maps?
Answer. Google Maps now offers Gemini-powered “know before you go” insights for places like restaurants and hotels, highlighting useful info such as dress codes, parking, and secret menu items.
Q2. How does Google Maps help EV drivers during holiday travel?
Answer. Maps now predicts EV charger availability by analysing real-time and historical data, helping drivers avoid queues and plan efficient charging stops.
Q3. Can I post reviews on Google Maps without using my real name?
Answer. Yes, users can now leave local business reviews using a nickname and profile picture, while Google continues to monitor for fake or suspicious activity.