Google Maps is rolling out new AI-powered features, including a Builder Agent and an MCP server—a tool that connects AI assistants to Google Maps technical documentation—to help developers and users create interactive projects using map data and code. The company stated it is leveraging the Gemini model across the board to power these capabilities.
Among these new tools, the Builder Agent functions similarly to other AI coding assistants: users can describe the type of map-based interactive prototype they want to build in plain text, and the agent generates it for them. Examples include prompts like “Create a city street view tour,” “Build a map visualizing real-time weather in my area,” or “List pet-friendly hotels in the city.”
Once the code is generated, users can export it, test a preview of the project using their own API key, or further refine the project within Firebase Studio.
The same suite also includes a Style Agent that enables users to design custom maps aligned with specific visual styles or branding themes—ideal for businesses seeking color-coordinated, on-brand map experiences.
Google has already provided foundational map data through the Gemini API. Now, it’s introducing a complementary feature called Grounding Lite, which allows developers to ground their own AI models using the Model Context Protocol (MCP)—an open standard that connects AI assistants to external data sources.
With this integration, AI assistants can answer contextual questions such as “How far is the nearest grocery store?” To enhance user understanding, Google also launched Contextual View, a low-code Maps component that delivers visual responses in the form of lists, map overlays, or 3D displays.
Additionally, Google has introduced a Code Assistant Toolkit—the MCP server—which links directly to Google Maps documentation. Developers can use this connection to get precise answers about implementing Google Maps APIs and working with map data. Last month, the company also extended its Gemini command-line tool to grant developers direct access to mapping data.
On the consumer side, Google is expanding Gemini integration within Maps. Last week, it enabled hands-free navigation using Gemini. In India, select regions now feature event alerts and speed limit information directly within the Maps app.
