Google Maps brings Gemini-powered navigation to India
India has become the second country after the United States to receive Gemini-powered navigation on Google Maps. The update introduces hands-free AI assistance, contextual suggestions, and enhanced details about points of interest along travel routes.
Local adaptation for Indian users
“When we say localizing for India, it’s not just the language,” said Miriam Daniel, vice president and head of Google Maps. “It’s also adapting to how Indians use the product, how they talk, how they ask questions, how they identify places — everything is different in India.”
According to Daniel, the rollout required deep localization to align the app with Indian linguistic and cultural nuances. At launch, Gemini will support nine Indian languages and will be accessible to both Android and iOS users within the next few weeks.
Enhanced safety and commuting features
Google is adding India-specific updates to improve driver safety and daily commutes. The app will now provide visual and audio alerts on accident-prone stretches, following collaboration with local authorities. The feature will first become available to Android users in Gurugram, the Cyberabad region of Hyderabad, Chandigarh, and Faridabad.
Key highlights
- Gemini integration allows AI-assisted navigation and personalized suggestions.
- Supports nine Indian languages at launch.
- Includes new safety alerts for accident-prone areas.
- Initial rollout covers major cities like Gurugram and Hyderabad.
Author’s summary: Google expands Gemini-powered navigation in India with localized language support and safety alerts to enhance user experience and commuter safety.