Google Maps Features! Google has a major re design for it’s Maps... BUT Australia and most of the world will have to wait awhile yet for the “Ask Maps” and “Immersive Navigation”new features:
From Google’s Maps Blog post of March 12th 2026 ...”Ask Maps starts rolling out now in the U.S. and India on Android and iOS, with desktop coming soon…….
“We’re introducing Ask Maps, a new conversational experience that answers complex, real-world questions a map could never answer before. Now you can ask for things like, “My phone is dying — where can I charge it without having to wait in a long line for coffee?” or “Is there a public tennis court with lights on that I can play at tonight?” Previously, finding this information meant lots of research and sifting through reviews. But now, you can just tap the “Ask Maps” button and get your questions answered conversationally, with a customized map to help you visualize your options
Beyond giving you new ways to explore, we’re also reimagining how we help you get to your destination. We’re giving the driving experience in Maps its biggest update in over a decade with Immersive Navigation – a complete transformation of the navigation experience, with redesigned visuals and more intuitive guidance. This update helps you stay focused and informed on the road, with fresh, real-world information and natural directions that prepare you for the drive ahead.
Now, your map comes to life with a vivid 3D view that reflects the buildings, overpasses, and terrain around you. When it’s helpful, Maps will highlight critical road details like lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, and stop signs to help you make that turn or merge confidently. This spatial understanding of your route is made possible with help from Gemini models, which analyze fresh, real world imagery from Street View and aerial photos to give you an accurate view of things along your route, like landmarks and medians.” and …
“Immersive Navigation” starts rolling out today across the U.S. and availability will expand over the coming months to eligible iOS and Android devices, CarPlay, Android Auto and cars with Google built-in…
We’re giving the driving experience in Maps its biggest update in over a decade with Immersive Navigation – a complete transformation of the navigation experience, with redesigned visuals and more intuitive guidance.
This update helps you stay focused and informed on the road, with fresh, real-world information and natural directions that prepare you for the drive ahead.
Now, your map comes to life with a vivid 3D view that reflects the buildings, overpasses, and terrain around you. When it’s helpful, Maps will highlight critical road details like lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, and stop signs to help you make that turn or merge confidently. This spatial understanding of your route is made possible with help from Gemini models, which analyze fresh, real world imagery from Street View and aerial photos to give you an accurate view of things along your route, like landmarks and medians.
However, Gemini in Maps Navigation IS now available worldwide for walking and cycling!
“Wh
en you’re exploring and navigating with Maps, Gemini can be your personal (and cycling) walking tour guide.
Just ask, “OK Google, what neighborhood am I in?” Hungry? Follow up with “What are top-rated restaurants nearby?” and Gemini will recommend options along your route based on Maps’ fresh, comprehensive information about the real world.
If you’re cycling, Gemini gives you hands-free help so you can stay safe and focused on the road.
Ask “What’s my ETA?” or “When’s my next meeting?” Running late? Say “Text Sarah I’m 10 minutes behind,” and your message will send while you keep a grip on the handlebars.”