Google Maps is heading in a new direction with artificial intelligence sitting in the passenger's seat. Fueled by Google's Gemini AI technology, the world's most popular navigation app will become a more conversational companion as part of a redesign announced Wednesday.

Across all Gemini’s incarnations, Google stresses its conversational abilities. Whereas Assistant was hard-pressed to keep one or two balls in the air, you can theoretically give Gemini much more complex instructions.

I was shown a demo during an online briefing ahead of the announcement being made, and if Gemini performs in real life as it did during the presentation, it could be a game-changer for on-the-move route changes and updates.

Google is now baking Gemini into Maps to let users ask it questions while driving, improve navigation, and do more with the app.

Users can now have conversations about their route or surrounding landmarks with Gemini while using Google Maps.

Google is adding its Gemini chatbot to Maps, letting users get chatty with their navigation app across Android, iOS and their cars. Why it matters: Nearly three years since ChatGPT's explosive launch,

Google Maps is getting a major AI boost with Gemini integration, introducing a smarter, hands-free driving experience. The new feature lets users talk naturally to Maps while keeping their eyes on the road.

AI is redefining how we navigate now, as Google Maps gets an intelligent upgrade with smarter features and a more conversational assistant