Google Maps Tests Easier Gemini AI Access During Navigation

Full text

Credit: Joe Maring / Android Authority

TL;DR

Google Maps is testing shifting the Gemini icon to the bottom-left of the navigation screen, moving the exit icon to the right, and relocating the alternate routes icon above the report button.

AI suggestion prompts within Ask Maps could also change from horizontally scrollable cards to a vertical list, displaying all five suggestions instantly without scrolling.

A new Plus icon inside the input field will add quick options to “Post a tip or photo” and “Update a place,” linking directly to the upcoming Tell Maps feature.

Building on its recent push to transform navigation with upcoming Personal Intelligence and conversational Ask Maps trip-planning features, Google Maps also appears to be working on tweaking its interface to make its AI features much easier to access while you’re on the move. Google Maps v26.30.00 includes code for a few upcoming visual changes that improve one-handed usability and streamline how AI prompts are displayed, and we’ve managed to activate these changes ahead of their rollout to give you an early look.

You’re reading an Authority Insights story. Authority Insights brings you all the latest exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage from the Android Authority team that you won’t find anywhere else.