Gemini on Google Maps: “Answer Questions About a Place” Rolls Out in Japan

AI

📝 Key Points of This Article

• A new feature powered by Google AI “Gemini,” called “◆ Ask (Ask about this place),” has been quietly rolling out in Japan for the Android and iOS versions of the Google Maps app since late December 2025.
• This is an AI feature that allows you to ask Gemini questions about the specific location you are viewing.
• By tapping the “◆ Ask” button, you can get answers by selecting from preset suggestions like “Is there parking?”, “Can I use the open-air bath?”, or “What time is the last order?”, or by entering your own custom prompt.

In the Android and iOS versions of Google’s map service, “Google Maps,” a new feature powered by Google AI “Gemini” called “◆ Ask (Ask about this place)” has been quietly rolling out in Japan since around late December 2025.

“◆ Ask (Ask about this place),” which has begun rolling out on the Android and iOS Google Maps apps, is an AI feature that lets you ask Gemini about specific locations. By tapping the “◆ Ask” button, you can receive answers by either choosing from preset suggestions—such as “Is there parking available?”, “Can I use the outdoor bath?”, or “What time is last call?”—or by typing in your own prompt.

The feature is designed to provide answers by referencing location details, user reviews, and other relevant information.

The “◆ Ask (Ask about this place)” feature in the Android and iOS versions of the Google Maps app will be enabled automatically as long as you have updated to the latest version of the app. Be sure to try it out during your year-end and New Year’s travels!

Google Maps App Links