Google Maps tests an unannounced Ask Maps chat feature

In short: Google appears to be testing, but has not officially announced, a new “Ask Maps” chat feature inside Google Maps on Android.

What happened

Recent reports say an “Ask Maps” feature was spotted in Google Maps for Android after an APK teardown (like looking inside an app update to see unfinished parts). It was found in Google Maps version 26.07.01.867227976, and Google has not publicly confirmed the feature as of February 2026.

Ask Maps is described as a text chat tool powered by Google’s Gemini AI model. Gemini is Google’s AI system that can write and answer questions in natural language. You can read more about Gemini here: /gemini.

In the leaked screenshots and descriptions, Ask Maps shows up as a small button, called a chip, under the search bar with a sparkle icon. Tapping it opens a panel that lets you “talk” to Maps about places, routes, traffic, business listings, and reviews.

Why it matters

People often search Maps with short keywords, like “coffee near me,” and then tap around to compare options. A chat-style tool could work more like asking a helpful local friend, for example, “Find a cafe with Wi-Fi that is not too crowded,” or “Give me a route that avoids tolls.”

Still, it is important to treat this as a test. Reports say access may be hidden under a “Try new features” setting, and some users see messages like “Spots are full right now,” which suggests a limited rollout. APK teardowns also do not guarantee a feature will launch, and Google could change it or cancel it.

Source: The Verge AI