Map apps get in the know (sorta)

Google Maps and Apple Maps have both started to feature advanced knowledge tips on destination page search results. While both add some additional context, they feel more like TripAdvisor comments that may or may not be helpful, depending on what’s important to you.

Google uses Gemini to crawl reviews and comments, suggesting “Know before you go” tidbits and allowing users to ask Gemini more questions. Apple provides basic “Good to know” bullet points about the place. While the Apple list is extensive, it requires a lot of processing and could describe many other places because the categories are generic.

Apple (left) and Google (right)

With Gemini, users can dive a little deeper. For example, a simple query shows that the atmospheric noise level of Cotogna is reported as “rambunctious and loud”. Is that a deal breaker? Depends on whether you’re on a first date, looking for a romantic evening, or have difficulty hearing. Environmental criteria are not meant to replace reviews; they simply describe the vibe reliably and accurately, so users can decide for themselves whether the place fits the occasion.