Google is introducing new features to simplify user contributions of local insights to Maps. The company announced that Gemini can now generate captions for users sharing photos or videos of places. After selecting the images to share, Gemini analyzes them to create captions, which users can edit or remove. This tool aims to provide a head start on captions, and it’s currently available in English on iOS in the U.S., with plans to roll out globally and on Android soon.
Additionally, Google is enhancing the process of finding photos for community sharing. By enabling media access for Google Maps in phone settings, users can view photos and videos from recent experiences in the “Contribute” tab and easily post them.
“Photos and videos you post help people better understand a place, like the overall vibe or the newest menu,” Google noted in a blog post. Recommendations for photos and videos are now globally available on iOS and Android.
Google is also improving how users track their contributions by showing total earned points in the “Contribute” tab and highlighting “Local Guide” levels on profiles. Local Guides earn points by adding content to Google Maps.
Achievement badges have been updated for easier recognition of contributions, such as “expert fact-finder” or “master photographer.” New gold-colored profiles make spotting top contributors easier.
These features are designed to support Google’s community of over 500 million contributors, who enhance Maps by sharing photos, reviews, and videos, ensuring the information remains fresh and reliable.