Google Maps adds Gemini AI with 3D navigation and conversational search in biggest update since 2009

Google Maps is rolling out its most significant redesign since launching turn-by-turn directions in 2009, replacing its flat 2D view with a real-time 3D map that displays buildings, crosswalks, and off-ramps generated with Gemini AI. A redesigned cinematic camera now moves slightly ahead of the driver's position during turns to preview upcoming streets, while a new “Ask Maps” button lets drivers ask plain-language questions and receive verbal answers with a custom-generated map. Google says internal eye-tracking simulations confirm that drivers using the updated interface spend less time looking at their screens despite the richer visual display, addressing what the team identified as 14 recurring navigation scenarios that most commonly cause drivers to miss turns.