In an exciting development for Google Maps enthusiasts, the company is rolling out a groundbreaking generative AI feature aimed at transforming the way users discover new places. The feature, currently in early access and available to select Local Guides in the U.S., utilizes large language models (LLMs) to enhance the discovery experience.

The traditional challenge of finding the perfect spot for a diverse group with varied preferences is now addressed with this innovative approach. By simply expressing your specific requirements, such as “places with a vintage vibe in SF,” Google Maps’ generative AI analyzes detailed information on over 250 million locations and leverages insights from a community of over 300 million contributors to provide tailored suggestions.

For example, if you’re in San Francisco and fancy a few hours of thrifting for unique vintage finds, Google Maps can instantly offer recommendations. The results are organized into categories like clothing stores, vinyl shops, and flea markets, accompanied by photo carousels and review summaries, ensuring trustworthy suggestions for users.

Moreover, the feature adds a conversational dimension to the experience. If you follow up with a question like “How about lunch?” after expressing interest in a vintage vibe, the AI seamlessly narrows down options to suggest restaurants matching the desired criteria, such as an old-school diner.

This experimental capability not only caters to specific queries but also proves invaluable for spontaneous decision-making or adapting plans on the go. For instance, asking for “activities for a rainy day” generates suggestions for indoor activities like comedy shows or movie theaters. Additional queries like “What about options for kids?” yield family-friendly recommendations such as bowling alleys, children’s museums, or indoor playgrounds.

The early access launch involving select Local Guides ensures valuable insights and feedback that will shape the feature’s evolution. Google plans to extend this exciting functionality to a broader user base in the near future, underscoring the company’s commitment to enhancing Maps’ role as a comprehensive tool for discovering new places.

As expressed by Google, this introduction marks just the beginning of their journey in supercharging Maps with generative AI. The company envisions a future where users can effortlessly explore the world with Maps, guided by personalized and context-aware recommendations.