Google has expanded the capabilities of its AI-powered Ask Maps feature, introducing new agentic functions that allow users to complete complex tasks such as ordering takeaway, searching for hotels and discovering nearby events directly within Google Maps.
The update builds on Google’s Gemini AI models by combining conversational intelligence with real-time mapping data, enabling the app to carry out multi-step requests instead of simply answering location-based queries.
AI moves beyond navigation
With the latest update, Ask Maps can now help users complete actions rather than just provide recommendations.
In the United States, users can ask the app to order meals from restaurants along their route. The AI identifies participating restaurants, considers saved preferences such as favourite places and dietary requirements, and adds selected items directly to the shopping cart. The feature launches with Square and Toast integrations, while Uber Eats support is expected to follow.
Google is also introducing AI-assisted hotel discovery. Users can search for accommodation using natural language prompts based on factors including budget, hotel type and nearby amenities. The feature compares live prices and room availability before presenting suitable options.
For travellers looking for activities, Ask Maps can recommend nearby attractions, concerts, comedy shows and other events, while providing links for ticket purchases.
Global rollout expands
Google is extending Ask Maps to Australia, Brazil, Canada, Indonesia, Japan and Mexico, adding to the more than 150 countries and territories where the feature is already available in English.
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The company said live transit information, personalised recommendations and conversation history will be available across supported markets, while more advanced agentic capabilities will launch first in the U.S. before expanding internationally.
Gmail integration adds personal context
As part of the update, users can choose to connect Ask Maps with Gmail, allowing the service to use information such as flight confirmations and hotel bookings to make more relevant travel recommendations.
Google also plans to introduce Calendar integration, enabling the AI to reference upcoming schedules while planning journeys.
Smarter transit and community updates
The update introduces a virtual departure board that provides real-time information for buses, trains, metro services and ferries. Departure times will automatically adjust when delays occur, giving travellers more accurate journey information.
Google is also enhancing community contributions by allowing users to submit updates through natural conversations or upload photographs of storefronts. The AI can extract information such as revised business hours, parking details and other location-specific updates from the images.
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