Google Unveils New AI Features for Trip Planning
Google has announced the launch of several innovative features aimed at enhancing travel planning for users. These updates, introduced on Thursday, include both artificial intelligence (AI) enhancements and traditional updates across its platforms. The Mountain View tech giant emphasizes that these tools are designed to streamline the vacation planning process, making it easier for users to explore destinations and create itineraries.
AI Enhancements in Search and Maps
In a recent blog post, Google outlined the new features that are set to transform how users plan their trips. With summer vacations approaching, the company is rolling out AI and non-AI functionalities to simplify the travel planning experience. One of the standout features is the AI Overviews in Google Search, which will now provide tailored trip ideas for various regions and countries. For example, users can input requests like “create an itinerary for Costa Rica with a focus on nature,” and the AI will generate a snapshot that includes photos and user reviews. An expandable map feature will assist users in mapping out their travel destinations, and once sufficient information is gathered, users can export their recommendations via Google Docs or Gmail, or save them as a custom list in Google Maps.
This feature is currently available in English for users in the United States on both mobile and desktop platforms. Importantly, it is not classified as an experimental feature, meaning users do not need to enroll in Search Labs to access it.
Innovative Screenshot Integration in Google Maps
Google Maps is also receiving a significant update that allows users to search for locations based on screenshots saved on their devices. Recognizing that many users take multiple screenshots while researching travel destinations, Google has integrated a feature that enables these images to be quickly uploaded to Maps. The Gemini AI will analyze the screenshots, identify the locations mentioned, and display them on the map. This functionality is currently rolling out to iOS users in the U.S. and supports English, with plans to extend it to Android users in the near future.
Additionally, Google is introducing a hotel price tracking feature, allowing users to monitor fluctuations in hotel prices for their selected dates and destinations. By activating the price-tracking toggle located beneath the search filters, users will receive automatic email notifications if there are significant price drops for any listed hotels. This feature is being rolled out globally across mobile and desktop browsers.
Custom Chatbots and Language Expansion
Another exciting development is the introduction of Gems, customizable mini chatbots powered by Gemini, which are now available to all users for free. This means that even those on the free tier of Gemini can create personalized chatbots for specific tasks. Users can design a custom trip planner chatbot that generates tailored itineraries based on simple text prompts. Gems can be accessed through the “Gems manager” option on desktop, although it is not yet available on the mobile app.
Finally, the AI Overviews feature in Google Lens and Circle to Search is being expanded to support multiple new languages. Initially available only in English, this feature will soon include Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish in regions where the AI functionality is accessible. This expansion aims to make travel planning more inclusive and user-friendly for a global audience.
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