On Thursday, Google revealed that users of Google Maps can now interact with Gemini hands-free while walking or cycling. This enhancement follows the introduction of a conversational, hands-free driving experience powered by Gemini several months ago. The update underscores Google's broader initiative to weave Gemini into more daily activities, transforming Google Maps from a tool for simple directions into a platform for real-time, interactive navigation.

While navigating on foot, users can now ask Gemini questions such as, “Tell me more about the neighborhood I’m in,” “What are some must-see attractions,” or “Are there cafes with a bathroom along my route.” Google notes that walking and typing simultaneously can be challenging, which is why this feature allows queries without interrupting your pace or leaving the navigation screen. For cyclists, the capability enables asking questions while staying attentive to the road. Examples include, “What’s my ETA,” “When’s my next meeting,” or even instructing Gemini to “Text Emily I’m 10 minutes behind” to communicate without letting go of the handlebars. The feature supports conversational, multi-turn interactions. For instance, you might ask, “Is there a budget-friendly restaurant with vegan options along my route, something within a couple of miles… What’s parking like there.”

This update is now live globally on iOS wherever Gemini is accessible and is currently rolling out to Android devices. It arrives alongside other recent Maps improvements, such as a Gemini-driven “know before you go” tips section that highlights key details about places of interest—like the best way to make a reservation, secret menu items, or optimal parking spots. The app has also introduced a refined Explore tab for quicker discovery of trending nearby locations and a new feature that predicts electric vehicle charger availability upon arrival at a destination.

This announcement follows Google’s Wednesday update to Chrome, which featured deeper Gemini integration and agentic capabilities for autonomous tasks, positioning it to rival AI-enhanced browsers from firms like OpenAI, Perplexity, Opera, and The Browser Company. That update also included a persistent Gemini sidebar and an “auto-browse” function that can navigate websites automatically.