Arrr, me hearties! Avast ye! Google Maps be gettin' a touch o' genius thanks to generative AI, savvy?
2024-02-02
Arrr, ye scurvy dogs! Google be augmentin' its Maps with generative AI to enhance suggestions and reckon with more perplexin' queries. But alas, fer now, 'tis but fer a chosen few in the US. Avast ye!
Google Maps is introducing a new feature that uses generative AI to allow users to search for places in a more conversational manner and receive personalized suggestions. The feature is called "Ask about" and enables users to ask questions like "where can I find places with a vintage vibe in San Francisco?" The AI then analyzes information such as photos, ratings, and reviews to provide relevant suggestions. For example, Google Maps suggested vinyl record stores, clothing stores, and flea markets in response to the vintage vibe query.Users can ask follow-up questions that reference their previous search, allowing the AI to offer more tailored recommendations. The suggestions can be saved or shared, making it easier for users to coordinate plans with friends who have different preferences.
Google Maps leverages its large-language models to analyze data from over 250 million locations and input from its community of over 300 million contributors. This ensures that the suggestions provided are trustworthy and based on reliable information.
The feature is currently being launched as an experimental feature for select "Local Guides" in the US, who will provide feedback to refine and test the feature before a wider rollout.
While some users on the Android subreddit were critical of the feature, considering it unnecessary, others saw the potential benefits of AI integration in Google Maps. It could help users discover new places and support smaller businesses by increasing their visibility.
Overall, the introduction of generative AI in Google Maps aims to enhance the user experience by offering more personalized and relevant suggestions for places to visit.