THEHACKCITY

 Google is introducing generative AI to Google Maps, allowing users to discover interesting places more easily. This feature uses large language models (LLM) to analyze detailed information about over 250 million places and insights from a community of 300 million contributors to offer quick suggestions for restaurants, shops, and more. Initially launching in the US, there's no specific timeline for its availability in other countries. Google aims to transform Google Maps from a navigation tool to a discovery platform for new places using its expertise in generative AI. For example, if you're in San Francisco and looking for vintage shops, you can simply ask Maps for suggestions like "places with a vintage vibe in SF." Google's AI models will analyze various factors like nearby businesses, photos, ratings, and reviews to provide trustworthy recommendations. Initially, only members of Google's Local Guides community will have access to this feature. Local Guide...

In an ongoing battle against "tip-baiting," gig workers, particularly those employed by Instacart and other delivery apps, have taken to utilizing Google Maps to label customers known for reducing or eliminating tips after the completion of their orders. The practice aims to assist fellow shoppers and drivers in avoiding customers with a history of low-tipping. Tip-baiting, a practice long resented by gig workers, involves customers initially placing orders with substantial tips, only to later diminish or remove the tip altogether once the service has been provided. This issue is particularly problematic for gig workers who rely heavily on tips, given that base pay from platforms like DoorDash can be as minimal as $2 per order, and Instacart recently reduced its base pay to $4. A trend has emerged where gig workers are collaboratively marking residences of suspected tip-baiters on Google Maps across the US. The labeling, such as designating houses as "Tip Baiter," i...