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● LIVE Updated 1h ago · 12 sources tracked

Gemini app gains new ‘Map’ tool, replacing ‘/’ with ‘@’

Google introduced a Map tool for the Gemini app on Android and iOS to improve location-based prompts. This update replaces the forward slash symbol with the at symbol for triggering tools. The feature is currently limited to mobile devices, leaving desktop users without access. Additionally, Google is phasing out the Spark brand to integrate tasks directly into Gemini and has implemented new access limits for Gemini models used by free and AI Plus subscribers.

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⚡ Key Developments & Real-Time Context
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  • ✓ The Gemini app now includes a Map tool for Android and iOS users.
  • ✓ Google replaced the / symbol with @ for triggering tools in the Gemini app.
  • ✓ The new Map tool is unavailable for desktop users.
  • ✓ Google is introducing limits on which Gemini models free and AI Plus users can access.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 12 independent reporting domains (90% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

Google launched a Map tool for mobile Gemini users and replaced the slash trigger with the at symbol.

Live updates

  1. Google adds Map tool to Gemini mobile app

    Google introduced a Map tool for the Gemini app on Android and iOS to improve location-based prompts. This update replaces the forward slash symbol with the at symbol for triggering tools. The feature is currently limited to mobile devices, leaving desktop users without access. Additionally, Google is phasing out the Spark brand to integrate tasks directly into Gemini and has implemented new access limits for Gemini models used by free and AI Plus subscribers.

    Why it matters

    These changes signal a shift toward deeper integration of Google services within its AI interface. By streamlining task management and location tools, Google aims to make the assistant more functional for mobile users. The introduction of model limits follows a compute-based usage change enacted in May.

    What is confirmed

    • The Gemini app now includes a Map tool for Android and iOS users.
    • Google replaced the / symbol with @ for triggering tools in the Gemini app.
    • The new Map tool is unavailable for desktop users.
    • Google is introducing limits on which Gemini models free and AI Plus users can access.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Google is removing the Spark brand to merge tasks into Gemini.
    • The Gemini Overlay may soon include a chat and task switch.

    What to watch next

    • Expansion of the Map tool to desktop users
    • Detailed specifications of the new model access limits for AI Plus users
    Sources used for this update (13)
    1. 9to5Google — Gemini app gains new ‘Map’ tool, replacing ‘/’ with ‘@’
    2. Chrome Unboxed — Google is quietly ditching the ‘Spark’ brand to merge tasks directly into Gemini
    3. Android Authority — Google adds a Map tool to Gemini, but only on phones
    4. SammyGuru — Gemini Overlay Could Soon Get a Handy Chat and Task Switch
    5. Absolute Geeks — Gemini just got a Map tool, but desktop users are left out
    6. 9to5google.com — Gemini app gains new ‘Map’ tool, replacing '/' with '@'
    7. 9to5google.com — Gemini limiting what models free & AI Plus users can access, more
    8. krater.ai — Blog | AI Insights, Tutorials & Updates | Krater
    9. iphtechnologies.com — AI Integration Services | Connect AI to Your Business Systems | IPH Technologies
    10. economictimes.indiatimes.com — Horoscope Tomorrow, October 1, 2026: New Month Brings Fresh Hope, Practical Choices And Positive Momentum....
    11. www.frase.io — Blog - SEO, GEO, AEO & AI Search Strategies | Frase
    12. sysgears.com — Enterprise Software Development Services - SysGears
    confidence 90%
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