Google is bringing generative AI to Google Maps, using large language models (LLMs) to help users discover interesting places. The feature will utilize Maps' extensive information on over 250 million locations, as well as insights from its community of 300 million contributors, to offer quick suggestions for restaurants or shopping recommendations. Initially available in the US, there is no information yet on when it will be introduced in other countries. Google sees this integration as a natural progression, as it aims to transform its navigation product into a tool for discovering new places rather than just providing directions. By leveraging its generative AI expertise, Google hopes to accelerate this transition.

For instance, if a user wants to find vintage stores in San Francisco, they can simply ask Maps for "places with a vintage vibe in SF. " Google's AI models will analyze Maps' comprehensive information, including photos, ratings, and reviews from the community, to provide reliable suggestions. To ensure thoughtful implementation, Google is starting small by granting access to generative AI features to its Local Guides community of contributors, who will provide feedback before the feature becomes available to all users. Local Guides are described as a global community of explorers who actively contribute to Google Maps. While it remains unclear how different this will be from a regular search on Google Maps, my assumption is that the response will be more conversational, resembling a chatbot-style interaction rather than a simple list of vintage shops based on proximity.