Google's Gemini adds a map tool for location-based prompts on phones

Google has been busy adding new features and improving Gemini. Guided Vision for Gemini Live, which aids blind and low-vision users, recently launched, along with Google Wallet integration with Gemini, which lets it access information related to your boarding passes, event tickets, etc. Additionally, Google is adding a new feature to the Gemini app on phones.

What is the New “Map” Tool?

The “Map” tool for Gemini is available now across all mobile devices, according to 9to5Google. You can access the feature from the list of options that appear when you tap the “+” icon and scroll right in the same row as Photos, Camera, Avatar, Files, Drive, and Notebooks.

Upon selecting the Map function, a circle will appear on a live map with the user’s current location as the center point. Users can zoom in and out to their liking, and look up another location on the map using the search function. An “Explore this area” function appears near the bottom of the screen. If the user selects this option, it adds the “Map Area” to their prompt, and they can use it as a reference point.

This function can help users in several cases, like getting a rough idea of what the neighborhood is like, the traffic situation in that area, good dining spots nearby, etc. This will help those looking to move or find places to hang out in an unfamiliar area.

A Minor Change Incoming

Another change Google is looking to add is replacing the forward slash with the “@” symbol. This change was discovered in the Google app's 17.63 beta version. If the user types the standard forward slash for accessing their skills and connectors, a note will appear with the following message: “/ is now @. Access your skills, connectors, and more from a single place.”