Google announced on Thursday that Google Maps users can now access Gemini hands-free while walking and cycling. The update comes a few months after Google Maps rolled out its Gemini-powered hands-free, conversational driving experience.
The announcement marks Google’s ongoing efforts plug Gemini into another part of people’s daily lifewhen moving Google Maps from static directions to real-time, conversational navigation.
As you walk and navigate with Maps, you can now ask Gemini questions like “Tell me more about the neighborhood I’m interested in,” “What attractions should I see?” or “Is there a cafe with a bathroom on my street?”
Google says that walking and typing can be difficult, so this allows users to ask questions without stopping or leaving the Maps navigation screen.
If you’re on a bike ride, you can ask Gemini questions while staying focused on the road, Google says. You can ask questions like “What is my ETA?” or “When is my next meeting?” Additionally, you can ask Gemini to “Text Emily I’m 10 minutes behind” so you can communicate with others while keeping your grip on the handlebars.
The feature allows you to ask multiple questions in a chat. For example, you could ask: “Are there any budget-friendly restaurants with vegan options on my route, within a few miles? … Is there parking there?”
The update is now available worldwide on iOS wherever Gemini is available, and rolling out on Android.
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The move is Google recently Updated Maps with new features, including the Gemini-powered “know before you go” tips section that surfaces important information places that are interested in For example, it can tell the user the best way to book a reservation, open a secret menu item, suggest the best place for the park, and more.
In addition, the navigation app also adds an Explore tab and a new EV charger availability prediction feature. The updated Explore tab makes it easier and faster to find trending spots near you, while the EV charging feature lets users see how many charging stations are available once they’ve arrived at their destination.
The announcement was made the day after Google updates Chrome with improved Gemini integration and agentic features for autonomous tasks, as it looks to compete with AI browsers from companies like OpenAI, Fidget, Operaand Browser Company. The tech giant also rolled out a persistent Gemini sidebar and a new “auto-navigate” feature that can navigate websites for you.