Google announced Thursday that Google Maps’ Ask Maps feature has added a number of new agent features, including the ability to order food, book hotels, find event tickets, and more. The tech giant is also bringing personal intelligence to Ask Maps, allowing the AI tool to use information from a user’s Gmail and Google Calendar to personalize responses.
The introduction of this new feature reflects Google’s ambition to transform Google Maps from a navigation tool to an assistant that can help users complete real-world tasks.
With the new agent food ordering feature, users can open Ask Maps in Google Maps and ask questions like, “Where can I order vegan avocado toast and oat milk latte near my house?” This tool will show you nearby restaurants that have what you’re looking for.
After selecting a restaurant, users can tap the “Order Online” option and order through supported platforms such as Square, Toast, and Uber Eats. Ask Maps will add the item to your cart. Users can add more items to their cart and choose to pay for their orders on supported platforms.
Additionally, users can use Ask Maps to find hotels for their next trip by entering queries such as, “For a conference in downtown Miami next weekend, find an affordable, top-rated hotel with an artsy vibe, within walking distance of gyms and restaurants.” Ask Maps compares prices and checks availability before providing a list of options. Once users find an option they like, they can click to go to the partner’s website and book a stay.
Users can also ask questions like, “What comedy shows or live music are there tonight near my workplace?” You will get a list of options along with a link to purchase tickets.
New agent features are rolling out to US users
The addition of personal intelligence will enable Ask Maps to provide users with personalized answers to questions about upcoming flights, dinner reservations, hotels, and more. For example, a user can ask, “What time will my next flight arrive in Vancouver?” or “How can I tell you where to eat or what to do near my hotel?” Ask Maps pulls information from your email and calendar to provide a customized response.
Note that Personal Intelligence is turned off by default.
Ask Maps will also remember previous conversations, allowing users to pick up where they left off. Users can now ask questions like, “What activities did you suggest for my trip to Seattle?” You can continue your plan without starting from scratch.
Google is also launching a live traffic widget on Ask Maps. This allows users to stay informed about delays and conditions that change in real time.
Ask Maps’ Personal Intelligence and Live Traffic widgets will be rolled out to all markets where Ask Maps is available.
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