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Everything You Need to Know About Google Map’s Latest Gemini Upgrade

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Published on January 27, 2025

To stay at the top of the AI game, Google is working through its platforms one by one. We’ve already seen an impressive range of AI tools added to Google Shopping and, in October 2024, Google announced its upcoming Gemini integrations in Google Maps. This included an AI-powered Q&A feature, which has recently started to be seen in the Google Maps app in the US.

The “Ask Maps” prompt opens an exciting opportunity for your business to be discovered, but you’ll need to provide Google with enough data if you want to see the benefits. In this article, I’ll explain the ways Gemini can be used in Maps and give you pointers on how you can see the best results.

How Ask Maps Works

There are two key places that Gemini is available in Google Maps. First, users can enter open-ended statements or questions into the search bar, such as Google’s example below: “things to do with friends at night in Boston.”

screenshot google maps app — Gemini supplies a list of businesses in categories, which users can then filter by location, price, opening hours, and more. Source: Google Blog

Once the user lands on the Google Business Profile (GBP) for a specific place, they are prompted to “ask Maps about this place” by entering a custom query into the search bar. This can be more specific to the place, such as whether the venue has good parking or if it is accessible.

screenshot of question asked to gemini in maps app — The answers include text, pictures, and reviews. Source: Google Blog

Alternatively, users can scroll further down the page to be presented with six pre-formed questions that vary based on the location.

gemini suggested questions in google maps — Gemini suggests further questions underneath the answer to the user’s initial query. Source: Google Blog

These features will heighten the chances of initial discovery within the Maps app, and also help to convert these users into customers by providing custom, in-depth information.

How To Make the Most of “Ask Maps”

Gemini will respond to some queries by stating “There’s not enough information about this place,” so you’ll need to give Google enough data about your business to benefit.

But where does it take this information from?

We know that Gemini prioritizes a business’ website, its Google Business Profile, and its GBP reviews before moving on to trusted reviews platforms and other third-party sources. While there are ways to encourage reviews, they aren’t entirely within your control, so it’s good to fill your website and GBP with as much information as possible, including pictures.

In a screen recording Google shared of its new AI feature, I also noticed the top additional sources used included the business’ own social media pages.

If you aren’t using social media for your business already, this is your sign to start. Some tips to make your content easy for Gemini to find:

Try to match your usernames to your business name
Have a clear, informative bio that includes your key business information like your industry, location, and opening times
Share reviews and user-generated content
Post about your new products or services regularly

When provided with enough information, Google’s “ask Maps” feature could be a useful tool to grow your business. So think like a customer and make sure your online sources – particularly your GBP and website – answer any potential questions. Finally, be sure to update your online sources with any changes to your business so that your customers are presented with the most accurate information.

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Annie Angus Writer

Annie Angus is a Writer for Website Builder Expert with a passion for shaping jargon-heavy research into digestible content. She has previously researched and written about industries ranging from tech to fashion, and now, after testing our top website builders such as Wix and Squarespace, she is enthusiastic to share her findings with our readers. With first-hand experience in utilizing social media and online marketplaces to grow a small handmade clothing business, Annie understands the priorities and concerns held by SME owners, and knows precisely what they look for in a website builder. She combines this unique perspective with her knowledge of website builders to produce engaging content spanning all areas of the small business journey, from creating a strong website to growing and maintaining an audience.