The Kaipher Editorial Team 
Google is piloting a new augmented reality navigation feature that overlays Google Maps data directly onto the camera viewfinder in its Gemini Live AI assistant. Hidden code in the latest Google app beta reveals that users who point their smartphone cameras at businesses, landmarks, or streets will see interactive info cards displaying names, ratings, and reviews pulled from Maps (Android Authority).
Real-Time Visual Guidance
Building on Pixel 10’s visual guidance capabilities, the AR Maps integration lets users hold a natural conversation with Gemini Live about their surroundings while seeing Google Maps details appear on screen. The system relies primarily on visual recognition, enabling it to identify multiple locations in a single frame and present corresponding info cards simultaneously, even when location services are disabled—though enabling GPS improves accuracy (Android Authority).
Independent Audio Interaction
Developers have also enabled an audio-only mode, allowing users to ask for place details without using the camera viewfinder. Early tests on Google app version 16.35.63 beta demonstrated that users could request information on nearby shops or transit stops and receive immediate, spoken responses sourced from Maps data.
Pathway to Smart Glasses
Industry observers see this feature as a precursor to smart glasses integration, notably aligning with Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy Glasses reveal scheduled for September 29. Google’s Android XR initiative, in partnership with Samsung and Qualcomm, aims to power both VR headsets and smart glasses with similar AR overlay capabilities—potentially bringing floating Maps info cards directly into users’ field of vision (English Aaj TV).
