Google is testing a Gemini-powered overhaul of its Maps community editing tool, according to code discovered in a recent APK teardown. The AI integration would transform the "Suggest an edit" feature from a form-based system into a conversational chat interface.
Android Authority found the experimental feature in an APK teardown of Google Maps version 26.05.04, where it remains hidden from regular users. Android Police independently confirmed the discovery.
Instead of navigating dropdown menus to update business hours or addresses, users would describe corrections in natural language to a Gemini chatbot.
The current system requires separate screens for each field, increasing error risks. With the Gemini integration, someone could type "this cafe closes at 10pm, not 11pm, and has moved to the next street," and the AI would parse the request into structured changes.
Screenshots show the interface maintaining all editable fields while adding a chatbot-style prompt box. Gemini would ask follow-up questions to clarify submissions, such as requesting correct hours when users report inaccurate listings.
All edits would still route through Google's moderation team, with only approved updates appearing publicly.
Google has been expanding Gemini support across its products, including navigation features, aiming to make the AI a standard component rather than optional. The editing tool experiment follows this pattern of conversational AI adoption.
No public timeline exists for the feature's release, and Google hasn't confirmed whether it will ship. Business owners and regular users await formal testing to determine if Gemini streamlines map maintenance while maintaining data accuracy.
The integration represents Google's broader strategy to simplify complex tasks through natural language interfaces. If implemented, it could significantly increase community participation in keeping Maps data current.
