Google has introduced new capabilities designed to simplify how users add local insights to Maps, as announced this Tuesday. A key addition is that Gemini can now generate captions when someone wishes to post a photo or video about a location. After a user selects images to share, Gemini will review them and produce descriptive text, which the user can then modify or delete. This tool aims to provide a helpful starting point for captions during the sharing process. These caption suggestions are currently accessible in English on iOS devices within the U.S., with plans to roll out worldwide and to Android platforms in the following months.

The company is also streamlining the process of selecting images to share with the community. By enabling media access for Google Maps in their phone settings, users will find photos and videos from their recent activities directly within the “Contribute” tab. From that section, they can simply tap on an image to post it.

“The photos and videos you share help others get a better feel for a place, such as its general atmosphere or latest menu items,” Google stated in a blog post. “We’re now making it simpler to locate the perfect image for sharing.” These photo and video recommendations are now live globally on both iOS and Android.

Furthermore, Google is enhancing how users monitor the influence of their contributions. The total points earned will now be visible in the “Contribute” tab, and “Local Guide” levels will be prominently shown on profile pages. Local Guides accumulate points by uploading photos, writing reviews, responding to questions, and verifying facts to enhance Google Maps. The company has refreshed its achievement badges to more clearly indicate if someone is an “expert fact-finder,” “a master photographer,” or “a rising novice.” Additionally, high-level contributors will be more recognizable with new gold-colored profiles.

These updates are intended to bolster Google’s community of more than 500 million contributors, who provide photos, reviews, and videos to assist others in making decisions about activities and destinations. Since Maps depends heavily on contributors to maintain current and accurate information, it is logical for the company to refine and simplify the contribution workflow.