Google has introduced new ways for football fans to stay connected to the FIFA World Cup 2026 tournament through artificial intelligence-powered features designed to make following the competition easier and more interactive.
The technology company is integrating Google Search, Google Maps, Waze, and Gemini AI tools to help fans track matches, access real-time updates, settle football debates, discover viewing locations, and even create personalised World Cup moments.
With millions of fans expected to follow the tournament across different time zones, Google said the new tools are designed to reduce the pressure of constantly searching for match information while keeping supporters engaged throughout the competition.
One of the key updates allows fans to pin live match scores directly to their Android or iOS device lock screens. By searching for a favourite team or match on Google and selecting the follow option, users can receive automatic updates before, during, and after games without repeatedly refreshing search pages.
This feature provides access to live scores, team line-ups, and tournament standings, thereby allowing fans to stay informed even while handling other activities.
Google is also expanding the role of Artificial Intelligence in football conversations through AI Mode in Search, which enables users to ask detailed questions about players, tactics, rules, and team performances.
Fans can use the tool to explore complex football topics, which include tactical breakdowns and interactive explanations of formations used by coaches. The feature aims to turn everyday football debates into data-driven discussions.
Beyond match analysis, Google Maps is also being positioned as a tool for fans looking for the best places to watch games. Through the Ask Maps feature, users can search for viewing spots, restaurants, and fan gatherings based on their preferences.
The integration with Waze will also provide updated road information, including traffic disruptions and transit routes, while drivers can access live football scores when their vehicles are stopped.
For fans who cannot watch every match live, Gemini is introducing personalised football news summaries through Scheduled Actions. Subscribers can receive daily updates covering international football news, with summaries tailored to their preferred teams and players.
Another feature allows supporters to become part of the tournament through Gemini’s image generation tools. Fans can upload their photos and create customised football-themed images showing themselves in stadium scenes, wearing national colours or celebrating like professional players.
Google said Gemini can also serve as a central World Cup information hub by combining live match updates, standings, statistics, highlights, and news into one experience.
The move reflects the growing role of artificial intelligence in sports, changing how fans consume information and interact with major global events.
As the World Cup continues to bring together millions of supporters, Google’s AI-powered tools also aim to ensure fans can follow every moment of the tournament, whether they are watching live, catching up later, or simply joining the conversation.
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