Google has introduced new generative AI tools for its Maps Platform and Google Earth, geared at developers and urban planners seeking up-to-date information and deeper insights into locations. These developments are intended to improve how real-world data is used in a variety of applications and initiatives.
New AI Tools for Developers
Over ten million websites and applications use Google Maps Platform, which supports services like delivery apps and property search sites. To accommodate the growing requirement for reliable, current information in generative AI applications, Google has introduced a new capability called grounding with Google Maps. This tool enables developers to include Google’s extensive location data into their generative AI models, guaranteeing that the information provided is factual and current. This allows developers to give customers with responses based on Google Maps’ large database of 250 million locations, assuring timely and correct content.
For example, organizations might leverage this grounding function to improve their chatbots. By linking to Google Maps, these chatbots may deliver precise and up-to-date information about specific areas.
AI Summaries in Cars
Google initially unveiled the notion of generative AI summaries during its annual Google I/O event, using its Places API. Rivian, a producer of electric vehicles, will be one of the first to employ this capability beginning next month. Rivian cars will show AI-generated summaries on their screens, providing drivers with succinct information on local eateries, stores, and supermarkets. This new feature is intended to make it easier for drivers to learn about nearby attractions while on the road.
AI Innovations for Urban Planners
Google Earth is also getting an upgrade, with the inclusion of generative AI capabilities created in partnership with Google Research and X, the moonshot factory. These technologies will provide urban planners with valuable insights into municipal data in much less time. Tasks that used to take days may now be accomplished in minutes, saving significant time and resources.
For example, if a city planner wants to know which regions require additional electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, they may ask, “Can you map the five zip codes with the fewest EV chargers relative to their area size?” The AI will use multi-step reasoning to identify these places and generate a customized map display. Planners may go a step further by asking if surrounding hotels and retail complexes lack EV charging facilities, allowing for a more complete planning strategy.
A Look to the Future
Google plans to begin testing these new capabilities in Google Earth starting next month. Urban planners and developers can sign up to become early testers and explore how these tools could transform their projects.
By integrating generative AI into both Google Maps Platform and Google Earth, Google aims to provide more robust, real-time solutions for developers and urban planners. This blend of rich, current place data and advanced AI promises to open new possibilities for developing more interactive and informed applications.
Source: The information in this summary is based on updates provided by Yael Maguire, VP & GM of Google Maps Platform & Google Earth, as detailed in Google’s news release on October 31, 2024. You can check out the full article here.
I’m Voss Xolani, and I’m deeply passionate about exploring AI software and tools. From cutting-edge machine learning platforms to powerful automation systems, I’m always on the lookout for the latest innovations that push the boundaries of what AI can do. I love experimenting with new AI tools, discovering how they can improve efficiency and open up new possibilities. With a keen eye for software that’s shaping the future, I’m excited to share with you the tools that are transforming industries and everyday life.