Google Maps has introduced a new feature for iPhone users that simplifies saving locations. By leveraging its Gemini AI, the app can now scan your screenshots to identify and save places directly to your Maps account. This innovation aims to streamline travel planning and ensure you never lose track of interesting spots you come across online.
How It Works
When you take a screenshot containing location information—such as a restaurant name, address, or map snippet—Google Maps can detect and extract this data. The identified locations are then added to a new “Screenshots” list within the app, accessible under the “You” tab .
Getting Started
To utilize this feature:
- Update Google Maps: Ensure you have the latest version of the app installed on your iPhone.
- Access the ‘You’ Tab: Open Google Maps and navigate to the “You” tab.
- Enable Screenshot Access: You’ll see a “Screenshots” list with a “Try it out!” badge. Tap it and grant Google Maps permission to access your photos.9to5Google
- Review and Save: After taking relevant screenshots, return to Google Maps. The app will prompt you to review detected locations, allowing you to save them to your list .
Manual Upload Option
If you prefer not to grant full photo access, you can manually upload screenshots:
- Go to the “Screenshots” list under the “You” tab.
- Select and upload the desired images.
- Google Maps will analyze and suggest saving the identified locations .
Privacy Considerations
Google emphasizes user control and privacy:
- Auto-Scan: This optional feature requires “Allow Access to All Photos” permission.
- Manual Control: Users can choose to manually upload screenshots without enabling Auto-Scan .
Availability
Currently, this feature is available for iPhone users in the U.S. Google has not announced a release date for Android devices .