Google Maps Just Got INSANE — 6 Features You Need to Try, by The Tech Girl on YouTube. 14 min 17 s.
- Video length
- 14 min 17 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 10
What you need
Steps
Update the Google Maps app from the Play Store or App Store. New AI features roll out in stages, so the latest version gives you the best chance of seeing them.
Open Google Maps and tap the search bar. Instead of typing a short keyword, type a full question, such as find a Thai restaurant with outdoor seating open now.
Read the answer at the top of the results, then add your other requirements one at a time, like parking nearby, a mid-range price or vegetarian dishes.
Ask follow-up questions in the same conversation to narrow the list. Maps compares the options for you instead of you opening each place one by one.
To build a trip, ask for stops along your route, such as coffee, fuel or charging points, and check each suggested stop sits on the way.
For food, ask Maps to find a restaurant, pick dishes, add sides and desserts, then choose a delivery or pickup time and continue to checkout.
Check the order total and fees on the checkout screen before you confirm. The AI suggests, but the restaurant and delivery app set the final price.
Open your Google account settings in Maps to connect Gmail, so confirmation emails for bookings can be pulled into your trips.
Look through your past trips and timeline in Maps to see where you have been, then reuse a place or route you liked.
Before you drive, mount your phone, start navigation and set up the Gemini driving help while parked. Do not type prompts while the car is moving.
Tips and common mistakes
Double-check opening hours, booking links and reviews on the place card, since AI answers can be out of date.
Features appear by country and account, so if a button is missing, update the app and try again later.
Offline maps still work for saved areas, but AI search needs a connection, so download your area before a trip.
Keep prompts specific. One clear question with two or three requirements beats a long, vague one.
Questions
Is Ask Maps free to use?
Yes, it runs inside the free Google Maps app. You only pay for things you buy through Maps, like food orders or bookings.
Why can't I see the Ask Maps button?
The feature is being released gradually, so it may not have reached your account or country yet. Update the app and check back in a few weeks.
Can I use it without an internet connection?
No, AI answers need a connection. Downloaded offline maps still give you basic directions and saved places.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
