Google Maps adds Gemini captions, photo suggestions & improved experience for contributors

Google Maps has launched several updates aimed at enhancing how users contribute local information. On Android devices, the app now highlights recent photos and videos in the contribute tab, helping users quickly share visuals from their experiences. This global feature is set to reach iOS users in the coming months.

Building on these sharing improvements, Google is introducing AI-powered caption suggestions for photos, leveraging its Gemini models. Currently available in English for iOS users in the United States, Gemini analyzes selected images to generate draft captions, which contributors may edit or ignore. These AI caption recommendations are planned for broader language and platform expansion.

Alongside the content sharing enhancements, Google Maps now offers a streamlined experience for contributors tracking their impact. Total points are visible in the contribute tab, while local guide levels appear more prominently on profile pages. Achievement badges have been updated for easier recognition of expert fact-finders and photographers, and a new gold profile color allows users to more easily identify high-level contributors. These changes are rolling out globally across Android, iOS, and desktop.