In a groundbreaking move that leaves its competitors in the dust, Google Maps has taken a giant leap forward by expanding its new-generation feature. While many see Google Maps as a simple navigation app, it has evolved into something much more versatile and powerful.

The search giant, headquartered in Mountain View, has announced what it proudly describes as “the biggest expansion” of its Lens integration within Google Maps. This innovative feature enables users to explore their surroundings by simply scanning them with their mobile phone’s camera.

Here’s how it works:

Several years ago, Google introduced a feature called “Search with Live View.” This feature allowed users to activate an augmented reality game within Google Maps, providing information about the locations around them as they moved their phone’s camera. By scanning their surroundings, Google Maps could identify businesses, restaurants, landmarks, and other points of interest available on the map and display them on top of the real-world images captured by the camera.

This meant that users could instantly access information about a restaurant, including its name, Google rating, and opening hours, by merely pointing their phone’s camera at it. This feature was later renamed “Lens,” and a dedicated icon was added to the Google Maps search box for easy access. Initially available in only a limited number of regions, Google is now rolling it out to more than 50 cities in what is being touted as “the most significant expansion of this feature to date.”

Cities included in the rollout are Austin, Las Vegas, Rome, Sao Paulo, Taipei, and others. To check if Lens integration is available in your area, simply launch Google Maps and look for the Lens icon in the search box.

This expansion of Lens integration is part of a massive update announced by the search giant this week. The update also introduces significant additions, such as “Immersive View for routes.” This feature allows users to explore their routes in a multi-dimensional view before embarking on their journeys. Immersive View combines satellite imagery and Street View photos with traffic information and weather conditions to create a simulated version of the world.

Drivers can preview their routes and become acquainted with every turn, all while gaining a more accurate understanding of expected traffic conditions. The weather forecast provides insights into how weather conditions may impact their journey and traffic conditions.

Currently, Immersive View for routes is available in a limited number of regions, but Google has pledged to expand it to more locations, likely in the first half of 2024.

As Google Maps continues to evolve and expand its capabilities, it solidifies its position as a leading app for navigation, exploration, and information access. With Lens integration and Immersive View, users can look forward to a more immersive and informative experience when using the app.