Google Maps to pilot AI‑powered food ordering with Gemini

Hidden code in the latest Google Maps beta reveals a forthcoming "Ask Maps to order food" feature powered by the Gemini artificial‑intelligence model. The functionality would let users state what they crave, have the app locate nearby restaurants and place an order automatically, possibly handling pickup orders while the user is on the road via Android Auto. Google has not disclosed whether the ordering will be processed entirely within its own cloud services or rely on existing delivery partners such as Uber Eats or DoorDash. The code strings suggest an initial roll‑out limited to a small user group in the United States, with broader markets like Portugal, Germany and Austria to follow if the pilot succeeds. The feature is not yet live and may remain in testing for months before a public launch.

If implemented, the integration could streamline the dining experience by combining restaurant discovery and ordering in a single conversation, but it also raises questions about reliability, partnership models and the need for compatible hardware.