You can ask Google Maps questions now, thanks to Gemini

The next time you're using Google Maps to research a business, you might be able to ask Gemini to help you find information. 

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Although Google hasn't announced anything, a new feature is showing in Maps -- an "Ask about place" card that ties into Gemini.

How 'Ask about place' works

While you have Maps open, tap on a business listing. Once you have that listing pulled up, open Gemini as you normally would (for me, that's saying, "Hey Google"). You'll see your usual Google input box, but you'll also see a small "Ask about place" card above it. Tap on that card, and you'll get a new window to ask specifically about that place.

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Asking Gemini without going through the special card doesn't work.

You can ask Gemini for opening and closing times, what services are offered, what a store sells, for reviews, for details about the menu, and other information. The information appears to come from the Google Maps listing page, not the company's website. However, if specific information like pricing is included in reviews, Gemini can access it.

My experience testing the feature

To test out the feature, I pulled up Maps and tapped on the listing for a local restaurant. I opened Gemini and asked it to tell me about the restaurant. It gave me a rundown of the cuisine and menu, listed the address and hours, summarized reviews, and even recommended specific dishes.

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The card was available on every business type I tried -- big box stores, local restaurants, independent craft studios, and more. All of this was information I could have found in the Maps listing on my own, but having Gemini compile it in one spot was pretty convenient and saved a good bit of time.