Google announces the introduction of new features, partially based on AI, in its Search, Maps, and Gemini products. These innovations are aimed at making it easier for users to plan their summer trips. In particular, Google Search now offers “AI Overviews,” which can help users get travel ideas for specific regions or countries. For example, you can search for “create an itinerary for Costa Rica focused on nature.” Users will be able to view photos, read reviews, and see locations on an expandable map. Saving an itinerary is possible via the “Export” feature, which allows you to share recommendations through Docs or Gmail, or save them as your own list in Google Maps.
The feature is available for English-language queries in the US on mobile devices and desktops. In addition, Google is making the Gems feature in Gemini available to everyone for free. A “Gem” is a tool that lets you create your own AI-powered experts for any task in Gemini. This means users can, for example, set up a travel planner that helps choose places to visit and suggests what to pack.
Additionally, Google is expanding its price tracking capabilities. Now, besides airline tickets, users will be able to receive notifications about hotel price drops. You can select filters such as star rating or beach access for a specific area. If prices go down, Google will send an email. Hotel price tracking is launching globally this week on mobile and desktop browsers.
As for Maps, Google is introducing the ability to turn screenshots into real vacation plans. People often take screenshots to save places they want to visit, but later forget about them. Now, users can grant Maps access to their photos so the app can automatically identify places mentioned in screenshots, allowing you to view and save desired locations to a list. Saved places will appear on the map, giving you an overview of your plans. This feature is launching this week in the US in English on iOS, and will soon be available on Android.
