Google is preparing an update for Maps that will make searching for places like talking to a Gemini chatbot.
As reported by Android Authority, in beta version 25.41.03.815390258, the app has a new Ask Maps item on the home screen. It is located below the search bar, in front of the "Restaurants" button. After clicking, a lower panel opens, where you can enter a query in spoken language.
The interface resembles the Gemini design, with search and close buttons at the top and query suggestions at the bottom, such as "restaurants with cocktails and snacks" or "fun things to do on the weekend nearby." Voice input is also provided.
Ask Maps is already live, but it's still in testing. Reporters have noticed that the feature sometimes duplicates answers or shows places on the map without proper descriptions in the results panel.
Originally introduced in 2024 as a tool for finding locations using spoken language, Google is now planning to expand its capabilities and integrate it with the Gemini approach.