Google Maps may recommend locations primarily based on advertisements you hear

• Adverts from streaming providers may immediate vacation spot ideas in Google Maps sooner or later.
• Google hasn’t commented whether or not it will see the sunshine of day.
• Google filed a patent for the idea in 2020.

Google is engaged on a “content-aware audio navigation” function that might recommend locations primarily based on advertisements taking part in on the radio or streaming providers, a lately found patent submitting exhibits.

First noticed by Auto Evolution, the patent utility detailing this function was filed by Google again in 2020, however solely revealed by the US Patent and Trademark Workplace (USPTO) on July 16, 2024.

The proposed function stems from the necessity to handle a number of audio sources. Google notes within the patent utility that turn-by-turn instructions usually need to compete with music, podcasts, audiobooks, or no matter else drivers are listening too. This may be, as Google places it, “suboptimal” each as a result of drivers could not be capable of hear instructions or as a result of instructions interrupt different audio at inopportune instances.

Google Maps content-aware audio navigation

The present model of Google Maps that runs in vehicles by way of Android Auto or Apple CarPlay already compensates for this considerably by mechanically reducing the quantity of different audio sources when relaying instructions, however the patent submitting proposes one thing extra superior.

As described within the utility, Google Maps would scan the audio content material to find out if there are any breaks the place it may situation instructions with much less disruption, though it could nonetheless interrupt if there is not sufficient time earlier than the following flip. This function would additionally take cues from the audio to find out parameters like language and playback velocity for instructions, matching the audio content material that the driving force is at present listening too.

Google additionally discusses permitting Maps to hearken to native radio advertisements to generate steered locations. If an advert for Starbucks comes on the radio, for instance, Maps may hear that, find the closest one, and supply to reroute you.

Google Maps content-aware audio navigation

Given the ad-centric nature of Google’s enterprise mannequin, it is not shocking {that a} sensible function like higher balancing of audio for navigation and leisure can also be being mentioned as a conduit for extra intrusive advertisements. It is also necessary to keep in mind that this function is just within the patent stage, and that customers could choose to not use it if it does turn out to be a part of a future Google Maps replace.

Google Maps has been steadily including options. It lately gained speedometer and velocity restrict capabilities for the Apple iPhone’s iOS working system (these options have been obtainable on Android since 2019), whereas EV charging integration appeared in 2023.