Google has found an interesting use for large language models (LLMs) in the Google Maps service. AI analyzes information about more than 250 million places, including ratings, photos and reviews from 300 million responses – all data is used to search for places that match even unusual user requests made in any form.
Google Maps’ new place search feature works very similarly to what you’d see in the company’s AI-powered search engine.
The user just needs to indicate which place he might be interested in, for example, “places with a vintage atmosphere.” After this, AI algorithms will select suitable options based on the analysis of extensive information from Google Maps about nearby establishments, and will also process available photographs, ratings and user reviews. Ultimately, the service will prepare several proposals that best meet the criteria of the user’s request.
You could ask about things to do with friends nearby or, for example, where outdoor enthusiasts might go.
The feature will launch experimentally this week for US users participating in the Google Maps Local Guides program, although the company promises to make it available to everyone over time.
