Google's big I/O conference is currently underway and the company opened with some major artificial intelligence (AI) updates coming to popular apps like Photos, Maps, and Gmail.
Google Maps is now AI!
All three apps are getting an AI-enhanced facelift in the coming months, bringing with them a variety of new tools and features. Gmail already has some AI built in, suggesting things for you to write, but that’s getting a big boost. The new Gmail can compose entire emails using simple text prompts, with the ability to edit, change the tone, and do just about anything else you can think of.
For Google Photos, the company is taking its much-loved Magic Eraser tool to the next level with the introduction of Magic Editor. In addition to the tools already available, like removing unwanted objects from the frame, Magic Editor can change exposure, move your subjects around as you please, change backgrounds, and more. The tool will be rolling out to testers in the coming weeks, and will be more widely available later this year.
Finally, there’s Google Maps. The upcoming AI-enhanced version of the incredibly popular app brings with it a bunch of new features, like the ability to track traffic, weather changes, and air quality. There’s also a new tool called Immersive View for Routes. As the name suggests, this gives you a multi-modal experience when viewing directions. You’ll get AI-enhanced imagery of your entire route, along with relevant information like bike lanes, sidewalks, busy intersections, and parking options.