Smart Maps Could Make Planning Trips A Breeze

Google is starting to roll out a clever new feature for its popular Maps app, called 'Ask Maps'. While it's just landed in Canada, these sorts of improvements usually make their way to Australia not long after. Essentially, it uses artificial intelligence (AI) — the same kind of smart tech that powers chatbots — to make your map searches much more conversational and helpful.

Imagine you're planning a weekend trip and you don't just want directions; you want ideas. Instead of typing in specific searches like 'cafes near park' and 'museums open Sunday', you could just ask, 'What are some good family-friendly activities around this area that are open on a Sunday afternoon, and where can we grab a coffee nearby?' The AI behind 'Ask Maps' would then sift through all the information Google has and give you a tailored list, complete with details.

This isn't about replacing the old Google Maps; it's about making it a super-smart travel assistant. For small business owners, particularly those in hospitality or tourism, this could be a game-changer. If Google Maps can help people find exactly what they're looking for with more personalised suggestions, it could drive more customers to local businesses that fit those specific criteria.

It’s still early days, and we'll have to see how well it works when it eventually reaches our shores. But the idea of having an AI that understands more complex questions and provides genuinely useful, tailored answers within Google Maps is a pretty exciting step forward. It could simplify planning outings, whether it’s for a family day out or finding a quiet spot for a business lunch.