Waze is a free, Google-owned GPS app that provides you with up-to-date navigation and traffic information for any trip. While it’s most dynamic when connected to your cellular service, the app has offline capabilities, granting you access to directions without reception.
The company acquired Waze in 2013, when Larry Page was Google’s CEO. Google paid about $1.3 billion for the navigation app, but Waze’s former CEO has criticized Google’s management of the product.
Multiple rounds of Google layoffs have impacted Waze, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic and, more recently, following its merger with Google Maps into a Google Geo division. Google Geo also includes Google Earth and Google Street View.
Is Waze better than Google Maps?
Like Google or Apple Maps, the most basic way to use Waze is by getting turn-by-turn directions. You can, for example, choose the quickest route, avoid tolls, or share your drive and ETA — something that can be especially helpful when meeting up with a group.
Waze stands apart from other GPS tools because of how unusually socially focused it is for a GPS tool. Not only does the app let you see the other Wazers on the road with you, but it provides two different chat options.
Waze and Google Maps share many similarities, but Waze is known for being car-focused with real-time updates on conditions and fastest routes. Google Maps, meanwhile, is a more traditional navigation app, but it offers options for walking, driving, biking, and public transportation. It also has features like Google Street View, which offers 360-degree visuals of locations.
New Waze features
Today, Waze has even more socially focused updates to help drivers keep safe on the road. Thanks to insights from local Waze drivers, these new updates will help drivers get information about navigating the roads, finding parking, and more.
These updates are set to roll out in 2024 globally on Android and iOS.
Navigating tricky roundabouts
Knowing how to navigate a roundabout can be confusing, especially if you’re a new driver in an unfamiliar area.
With Waze’s new update, thanks to their community members, drivers can clearly see when to enter, which lane to choose, and where to exit, so you never miss your turn.
Emergency vehicle alerts
Now, drivers can be alerted in advance when emergency vehicles like ambulances are approaching or stopped along your route.
Waze drivers will be notified and can adjust their driving accordingly — keeping you and first responders safe.
Speed limit alerts
No one enjoys getting a costly speeding ticket. With Waze’s speed limit alerts, drivers can slow down and safely adjust to the changing road conditions.
Waze will alert you when a speed limit is about to decrease along your route, giving you ample time to slow down and adjust to the new speed.
Local hazard alerts
Driving in a new city or town can be daunting, especially if you’re new to driving.
Whilst the Waze app already features alerts to hazards such as potholes, railroad crossings, or bad weather, Wazers will also receive early warning signs for new hazards like sharp curves, speed bumps, and toll booths.
Stress-free parking reservations
Waze is expanding its parking features to deliver stress-free parking for Wazers.
The new app feature offers detailed information about parking, including cost, coverage, wheelchair accessibility, valet options, and the availability of EV charging stations. Wazers will even be able to reserve a parking space from the Waze app to save you time.
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