Recently, I expressed my preference for ChatGPT over Netflix, especially in the event of having to cancel one of the two. For nearly two years, I've been actively using OpenAI’s chatbot, taking advantage of the Plus subscription that grants access to most premium features of ChatGPT. My approach is to utilize the AI as a personal assistant, despite its limitations in that regard.
In my daily routine, I rely on ChatGPT for gathering information across a variety of topics, both professional and personal. I often prompt the AI to provide specific data or to generate detailed reports on various subjects. While it does help in saving time, it’s important to note that ChatGPT is still a work in progress and lacks true agentic behavior. The AI cannot access data from other applications, a fact that I find reassuring, as I'm not yet fully comfortable entrusting OpenAI with such capabilities.
Recently, I came across an intriguing new feature from Gemini that has started rolling out to users. This feature, which emerged from a leaked APK teardown, allows users to interact with Gemini while using Google Maps. It introduces an "Ask about place" menu that enables conversations with the AI regarding specific locations on the map. This functionality is not only brilliant but also something I deeply desire to have access to right now.
To activate this feature, users simply need to open Google Maps and invoke Gemini. By tapping the new "Ask about place" button, they can inquire about various locations, including businesses. However, this feature is limited to individual spots rather than larger geographic areas like cities. Despite this limitation, the ability to converse with an AI about points of interest is a significant advancement in enhancing user experience.
While I might not be a Gemini user, Google Maps remains my preferred navigation app for location-related searches. For instance, I utilized ChatGPT to create an itinerary for a trip to Tokyo, while Google Maps was essential for navigating and discovering nearby restaurants, coffee shops, and museums. Integrating an AI like Gemini into Google Maps would simplify interactions about places I plan to visit, making travel planning even more efficient.
Unfortunately, I cannot access this innovative Gemini feature due to my choice of device. As an iPhone user, the integration of Gemini chat within Google Maps is currently unavailable for me. This situation highlights how Google leverages its position in the mobile operating system market, providing an advantage that OpenAI lacks. While OpenAI is developing its own AI devices, there is no dedicated ChatGPT operating system at this time.
Looking ahead, the only competitor that might provide similar AI capabilities is Apple. The anticipated upgrade to a smarter Siri could eventually integrate Apple Maps data, but users may have to wait at least a year to experience such benefits. For Android users, however, the opportunity to engage with Gemini about Google Maps places is now available, assuming the feature has been rolled out to their area.
To ensure you can utilize this advanced functionality, don't forget to update to the latest versions of the Gemini app and Google Maps on your Android device. The integration of AI within everyday applications like mapping services is a significant step toward enhancing user experience and accessibility.
