Now Google Maps has "Ask Maps" which is a Gemini-powered feature so you can search for locally relevant info and then do something with it (make a reservation, share a list of places with friends, get directions after chatting, etc). It's personalized based on places you've searched for and saved in Maps.

Probably a good idea to pull out your phone (it's only for Android & iOS right now) and see how a local business client is showing up there (or not).

Glenn Gabe has been testing Ask Maps within the Gemini early access program and also hopped on a call with folks from the Gemini & Maps teams, and shares a bunch of helpful examples and insights.

This same blog announces Immersive Driving for Google Maps, which looks very neat but I hope they keep the classic view as an option because sometimes that's all you need.