World Cup 2026: Google unveils six smart tools for fans

By Juliet Umeh

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup captivates football fans across the globe, Google has unveiled six smart digital tools designed to help supporters stay informed, engaged and connected throughout the tournament.

The features offer live score updates, AI-powered match analysis, personalised football briefings, immersive fan experiences and recommendations on where fans can watch matches and share the excitement with fellow enthusiasts.

According to the company, the tools are powered by Google Search, Maps, Waze and its artificial intelligence platform, Gemini, and are aimed at making the World Cup experience more interactive, personalised and accessible for millions of users worldwide.

One of the key features enables fans to receive live match updates directly on their smartphone lock screens. By following a favourite team or match on Google Search, users can access real-time scores, line-ups, standings and match notifications without repeatedly searching for updates.

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

To help fans gain deeper insights into the game, the company has also enhanced Search with AI Mode. The feature allows users to 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 locate 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 provide 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.

In addition, 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.

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

According to Google, the new tools demonstrate how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are transforming the way people engage with global sporting events.

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