Google introduces six smart tools for World Cup 2026 fans

By Juliet Umeh

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup draws football fans worldwide, Google has introduced six digital tools designed to keep supporters informed, engaged, and connected throughout the tournament.

The new features provide live score updates, AI‑driven match analysis, personalised football briefings, immersive fan experiences, and recommendations for where fans can watch games and share the excitement with others.

Google says the tools are powered by Google Search, Maps, Waze, and its artificial intelligence platform, Gemini, and aim to make the World Cup experience more interactive, personal, and accessible for millions of users globally.

One key feature delivers live match updates directly to users’ smartphone lock screens. By following a favourite team or match on Google Search, users can receive real‑time scores, line‑ups, standings, and match notifications without repeatedly searching for updates.

Google notes that the feature ensures supporters never miss important moments, even while engaged in other activities.

To give fans deeper insight into the game, the company has enhanced Search with AI Mode. The feature lets users ask detailed questions about football rules, player statistics, team performances, and coaching tactics, providing instant answers and visual explanations.

“Whether you’re trying to understand a team’s formation, compare players, or learn more about a specific rule, AI Mode can provide detailed insights in seconds,” the company said.

Beyond match updates and analysis, Google Maps now includes an “Ask Maps” feature that helps users find suitable venues, viewing centres, and sports bars where fans can gather to watch matches. The tool can also assist with reservations and recommendations based on user preferences.

For fans travelling to games or viewing events, Google Maps and Waze offer real‑time navigation support, including updates on road closures, traffic conditions, and transit routes. Waze users can also access live score updates while their vehicles are stationary.

Google has also introduced Scheduled Actions through Gemini, enabling subscribers to receive customised daily football briefings focused on their favourite teams, players, and competitions.

Fans can use Gemini’s image‑generation capabilities to place themselves in football‑themed scenes, such as celebrating a goal in a packed stadium or appearing in their national team’s colours.

The suite is completed by Gemini’s Matchday Hub, a feature that combines live scores, standings, highlights, statistics, images, and videos in a single interface, giving users a comprehensive view of tournament action as it unfolds.

Google says the new tools show how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are transforming the way people engage with global sporting events.