Google adds Map tool to Gemini app, tests '@' for skills
Google's Gemini app now has a Map tool on mobile, while a beta replaces the slash with '@' for skills and renames Connected Apps to Connectors.
Google has introduced a Map tool in the Gemini app on Android and iOS. The tool is widely rolled out on mobile but is not yet available on the web, according to 9to5google.com.
The Map tool opens a live map of the current location with a circular focus area. Users can pan, zoom, and search for locations. Selecting an area adds 'Map Area' to the prompt box.
In the latest Google app beta version 17.63, Gemini is testing a change that replaces the forward slash ('/') for invoking skills with the '@' symbol. The '@' symbol will also be used for Connected Apps, which will be renamed to 'Connectors'.
A prompt appears when entering a slash: '/ is now @. Access your skills, connectors and more from a single place.' The slash-to-@ change is not widely rolled out yet.
Background
On Wednesday, Google announced that skills will replace Gems and that a slash can be used to activate them.
Quick answers
What is the Map tool in Gemini?
It opens a live map of your current location with a circular focus area, allowing panning, zooming, and searching for locations. Selecting an area adds 'Map Area' to the prompt box.
Why is Gemini replacing the slash with '@'?
The '@' symbol will be used to invoke skills and will also be used for Connected Apps, which are being renamed to 'Connectors'.
Is the '@' change available to everyone?
No, the slash-to-@ change is not widely rolled out yet. It is being tested in the latest Google app beta version 17.63.