First up is Insider Tips powered by Google’s Gemini AI. Here’s more about the feature from Google:

Now, when you search for places in Maps like restaurants, hotels or concert venues, scroll down to find new “know before you go” tips — it’s like having a knowledgeable guide show you the way. Using Gemini capabilities, Maps does the research for you: It uses reviews and helpful information it finds online to surface top insights, like the best way to book a reservation, what the secret menu items are, parking tips and more — and you can click on each of the tips to get more information.

That is rolling out now to iOS users.

Next is an updated Explore tab. You can swipe up to see trending and popular restaurants, activities, and sights near you. There are also curated lists from Viator, Lonely Planet and OpenTable along with information from local influencers.

The updated Explore tab is rolling out this month to iOS.

Also rolling out this month to iOS is the ability to leave a review with a pseudonym. You can choose a nickname and profile picture to be associated with your reviews. Behind the scenes, reviews are still associated with your Google account to protect from misuse.

Google Maps is a free download now for the iPhone and all iPad models.