Google Maps beta includes AI food ordering tool

Google is developing a feature that would allow users to order food directly through the Google Maps app using conversational artificial intelligence, according to code discovered in a recent beta version of the software. The unreleased capability, referenced as "Ask Maps to order food," would enable users to describe their cravings in natural language and have the AI assistant handle the entire ordering process.

The code strings, found in version 26.27.00.941319029 of the Google Maps beta for Android, include promotional text reading, "Say what you're craving, discover local favorites, and Maps will order for you even while you're on the go." The interface also contains buttons labeled "Try it out" and "Maybe later." The feature appears to be an extension of the existing "Ask Maps" function, which uses Google's Gemini AI to provide conversational recommendations for places to eat and explore.

If launched, the tool would represent a significant shift for Google Maps from a discovery and navigation platform into an active transactional agent. Instead of manually searching for a restaurant, browsing a menu, and switching to a separate delivery app, a user could simply tell the app...