AI Comes to Google Maps: Understanding “Know Before You Go” and Trending Spots
Nov 26, 2025
Google Updates
Google Maps Adds “Know Before You Go”: What Local Businesses Need to Know
Google Maps just introduced a new set of AI-powered updates designed to help users decide where to go, not just how to get there. The latest rollout includes “Know Before You Go” tips and a revamped Trending & Popular section inside the Explore tab, features that could significantly change how small businesses get discovered.
What’s New
The “Know Before You Go” feature uses Google’s Gemini AI to pull short, helpful snippets from user reviews and other online sources. These insights highlight details like parking options, reservation tips, or unique recommendations from real visitors.
The Explore tab also received an update. As Google’s official blog explains, the new “Trending” section now surfaces popular restaurants, activities, and attractions based on live data from partners such as OpenTable and Lonely Planet. This makes Google Maps more than a navigation app. It is evolving into a real-time discovery tool for local experiences.
Why It Matters
These updates change how customers find and evaluate local businesses:
Reviews now influence visibility. The exact words customers use, like “free parking” or “perfect for families,” can appear in the “Know Before You Go” box. Businesses with specific, descriptive reviews have a better chance of being featured.
Trending visibility drives action. When your business lands in the Explore tab’s trending list, you reach nearby users who are ready to visit. This is a new layer of visibility beyond traditional Map Pack rankings.
AI is learning from your content. Google’s Gemini system analyzes your Google Business Profile, website data, and reviews to summarize insights. Complete, keyword-rich profiles will feed the AI better information and increase your odds of being highlighted.
The Takeaway
Google Maps is moving toward a smarter, more context-aware experience. The businesses that show up first will be the ones offering useful, accurate information and authentic customer experiences that AI can recognize and recommend.
