Google Announces Upgrades to its Search and Maps Services

Alphabet Inc's Google has released a series of planned upgrades to its search and maps services, demonstrating its ambitions in augmented reality and its appeal to a generation of internet users who are drifting away from the company.

Google shared its plans on the first day of its annual I/O developer conference held near its Mountain View, California headquarters. New features allow users to search for nearby items by using images and using their phone camera to identify physical objects. The company promised a way to explore detailed 3D digital models of landmarks and neighborhoods in Google Maps.

Google strives to maintain product relevance and expansion as user needs evolve beyond text. In an interview, Google's Senior Vice President and Product Chief, Prabhakar Raghavan, said, "Search should be something that you can do anywhere, in any way you want, using any of your senses."

Google's core search advertising business has grown steadily during the pandemic, despite recent moderate financial results. However, the I/O announcements highlight the new threat Google sees against its flagship services.