While the world is still debating about the pros and cons of AI, Google has gone one step ahead and given AI its stamp of approval with an incredible AI instilled upgrade to its Maps app. With this upgrade, Google has leapfrogged ahead in terms of providing enhanced customer experience while blending in new (albeit controversial) technology. Some of the new features are sure to leave users spellbound and businesses need to be made aware of how they can benefit from these enhancements.

Immersive View For Routes (iOS and Android): 

This hot new feature gives you a multidimensional (3D) street view of your desired location and it lets you know the best route to take depending on your mode of transportation (bicycle, car, motorcycle). It will put you right into the heart of your mobile screen, letting you know the directions turn by turn and giving you a detailed view of the landmarks, surroundings and helping you navigate complex destinations with ease. With the new time slider, you can plan ahead on when to head out based on vital information like simulated traffic conditions and weather updates. With this enhancement, you sure won't get caught in the rain or a traffic jam. 

Note: Immersive view for routes uses AI to fuse together a combination of street view and aerial images. This will give you a detailed view of what a landmark or restaurant looks like even before you step out.

“Why does this matter to businesses?”

Well, if your Google Business Profile (GBP) is properly optimized then chances are that ‘your’ business can be viewed as a landmark and this will be great advertising for your business.

The Cool New Google Maps Search:

The new Google Maps Search helps you find relevant locations based on your specific choices and preferences, giving you a photo-first result. The results displayed are based on submissions of images and analysis of the billions of photos shared by the Google map using community, incorporating AI and advanced image recognition models. All you have to do is scroll through the results and tap on a photo to learn more and navigate further. 

Say you are looking for a restaurant that serves beer, the new search will find you locations based on your taste, budget and availability, providing you a list of photos of the relevant places that you can choose from. If you prefer rice beer, the new AI search can help you locate a place that not only serves it, but also offers you a look at user-submitted reviews and photographs. Using a filter you can also narrow down your search results based on various criteria such as ratings, food/cuisine served and also distance. At The Digital WOW also known as Consult PR, we’ve been updating our client's Google Business Profiles (GBP) profiles with photographs and other relevant details of their business for quite a while. Most of our clients are ahead of the curve on this front and stand ready to reap the rewards.

Lens in Maps (formerly known as Search with Live View) 

The wonders of what can be achieved with AI are simply amazing, and Google just added a feature that is just that. Lens in Maps, uses AI to recognize and label the places or objects that you view through your camera. All you need to do is tap the lens icon in the search bar (of your Maps) and point your camera lens to a particular spot in an area, and you get access to information about ATMs, subway stations, coffee shops, retail and other stores and restaurants. You can also ask AI questions for directions and details about the place. When you are in a new neighborhood, or you are visiting as a tourist, this feature can surely come in handy.

“Why does this matter to businesses?”

The investment of time and effort that you’ve put in to painstakingly fill out all the information to have your GBP updated (uploading images, updating business information, updating information about the nature of the business, etc.) with our team here at The Digital WOW, is now going to reap benefits. This will be in the form of being potentially viewed in lens and the lens featured tied into maps.

There are other features coming out that are significantly beneficial to users that while not directly benefiting businesses will certainly increase the user base of Google Maps as opposed to competing services:

Upgraded Google Maps Navigation with AI

With many drivers now using Google Maps Navigation for travel, this AI upgrade is god sent. Real-time traffic updates, alternative routes that can help you reach your destination faster/easily based on traffic conditions and information about traffic jams are just some of the new features. The app will also inform you about speed limits in certain areas (which can certainly save you some tickets). You will also get more detailed and realistic information about buildings and a heads-up about your exact location on the final stretch of your ride. The upgraded navigation feature will help you navigate through some tough driving maneuvers, especially when you have to cross multiple lanes to reach that narrow exit on a highway. The new upgrade might just make that morning office commute a lot less daunting.

EV Charging S

With many people doing their bit to avert a permanent climate crisis by switching to electronic vehicles, charging anxiety is bound to creep in. Google Map’s EV feature provides you with information on the nearest charging station based on your location. You will also have access to information like the type of charger and whether the available chargers are fast, medium or slow.  

Since about 25% of chargers in the US are down at a given point in time, the app gives you information about when the charging station was last used and also if it is available for use or occupied. Now that sure is a lifesaver of a feature.

Time To Make Your Business More Visible

For business owners, the new upgrades mean that if you haven't already done it, then you need to have your Google Business Profile (GBP) optimized if you are to stand a chance in competing for clients, with other competitors who may already be ahead of you. A fully detailed GBP will help your business stand out in Google Map searches, which can eventually lead to better ROI. Consult PR aka The Digital WOW offers GBP optimization as part of our online reputation management services.