B2 – Upper Intermediate
Google Maps just got a lot more helpful. It now includes a smart voice assistant that you can talk to while you drive. Instead of just showing directions, it can answer questions, help you find places, and make your trip smoother, all without needing to touch your phone.
Read the article and also listen to the audio and see how this new feature is changing the way people travel making driving safer, easier, and more connected than ever before.
https://fortune.com/2025/11/06/google-maps-gemini-conversational-companion-ai
Vocabulary Questions:
- In tech speak, what does “hallucination” mean? “AI chatbots, like Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, have sometimes lapsed into periods of “hallucinations” — but Google is promising that built-in safeguards will prevent Maps from accidentally sending drivers down the wrong road.” Use the term in a sentence in the same context.
- Define the word “overhaul“. “The changes have included an overhaul of Google’s ubiquitous search engine that has de-emphasized a listing of relevant web links in its results and increasingly highlighted AI overviews and conversational responses provided through an AI mode.” Use it in a sentence and give a synonym.
- What is the meaning of “prodded by“? “Prodded by OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT in late 2022, Google has been steadily rolling out more of its own technology designed to ensure its products continue to evolve with the upheaval being unleashed by AI.” Use it in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
Discussion Questions:
- How do you feel about Google using AI to improve Google Maps to it a more conversational companion?
- Would you feel comfortable talking to your AI map while walking or driving? Why or why not?
- “Google is hoping the AI features will turn into a showcase that help gives Gemini a competitive edge against ChatGPT.” Do you think this will be so? Share your insights.
- Share your thoughts about AI chatbots sometimes lapsing into periods of “hallucinations”.
- What is your preferred navigation app and what makes it better than the others?