Google announced on Thursday that Google Maps users can now access Gemini hands-free while walking and cycling. The update comes a few months after Google Maps launched its Gemini-powered hands-free, conversational driving experience.
The announcement marks Google’s ongoing efforts to plug Gemini into more part of people’s daily liveswhile moving Google Maps from static directions to real-time, conversational navigation.
When you’re walking around and navigating with Maps, you can ask Gemini questions like “Tell me more about the neighborhood I live in,” “What are some must-see attractions?” or “Are there cafes with bathrooms on my route?”
Google says that walking and typing can be difficult, so it has launched the ability for users to ask questions without breaking their stride or leaving the Maps’ navigation screen.
If you’re riding a bike, you can ask Gemini questions while staying focused on the road, Google said. You can ask questions like “What is my ETA?” or “When is my next meeting?” Plus, you can ask Gemini to “Text Emily I’ll be 10 minutes late” so you can talk to others while keeping your grip on the steering wheel.
The feature allows you to ask multiple questions in one conversation. For example, you might ask: “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options on my route, something within a few miles? … What’s the parking like there?”
The update is now available worldwide on iOS wherever Gemini is available, and rolling out to Android.
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The move comes as Google recently updated Map with new features, including Gemini-powered “know before you go” tips sections that display important information about places of interest to you. For example, it can tell users the best way to book a reservation, reveal secret menu items, suggest the best parking spot, and more.
In addition, the navigation app also adds an improved Explore tab and a new EV charger availability prediction feature. The updated Explore tab makes it easier and faster to find trending spots near you, while the EV charger feature allows users to see how many chargers are likely to be available once they arrive at their destination.
Thursday’s announcement comes a day later Google has updated Chrome with improved Gemini integration and agent features for autonomous tasks, as it looks to compete with AI browsers from companies like OpenAI, Confusion, Operaand The Browser Company. The tech giant also launched a persistent Gemini sidebar and a new “auto-browse” feature that can navigate websites for you.








