Waze is changing. It’s not just a map anymore.
It’s getting an AI overhaul, powered by Google’s Gemini. The goal is simple. Stay competitive with Apple Maps. But also, maybe stop being so annoying? 🤷
Here is what actually matters for your commute.
Your driving habits matter now
The app now guesses your style.
Like it knows you. It looks at your trip history and local traffic data. If you hate winding streets and prefer the open highway, it puts those routes first. Personalized. Annoyingly good? Maybe.
You can turn it off, though. If the algorithm isn’t your friend, you can disable personalization in settings or pick a route yourself.
This rolls out globally right now on iOS and Android.
“Personalized navigation is rolling out now.”
Talk to it, don’t type to it
Do you have time to type while stuck in gridlock?
No.
Use Gemini. It works via search voice. Ask questions like “Where can I get cheap coffee?” or “I need parking near Grand Mall.” Or find the gas station with the lowest price nearby.
It answers. You pick.
This feature is currently limited to the Waze beta community, but it is global. Expect it to hit everyone else soon.
Two wheels, two different rules
Car drivers go home. Motorcycle riders get the spotlight.
Motorcycle mode is here. And it’s smart.
It doesn’t just give you the car route minus two wheels. It finds shortcuts only a bike can take. It respects road restrictions that stop cars but let riders pass.
It also highlights the things that will ruin your day.
- Potholes
- Speed bumps
- Narrow bridges
- Shoulder endings
- Raised crosswalks
The ETAs are supposedly more accurate for bikes too.
This isn’t everywhere yet. It is available now in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Malaysia, and the Philippines. More countries will follow. Waze promises it.
The chatbot is finally listening
Reporting a slowdown used to require a tap.
Now, you just speak. But it’s not just for police traps. You can report map errors.
“The road is closed here.”
Say that. Waze sends it to the map editors. Conversational reporting is rolling out globally today. On both platforms.
Shut up, Waze
Finally.
Some people want silence. Or at least, fewer words.
Enter Less chatty mode.
Toggle this setting, and the app backs off. It keeps you informed about turns and hazards, but the chatter dies down. Good for music. Good for podcasts. Good for sanity.
No more constant background noise.
This is live globally. iOS. Android. Right now.
It’s a small change. But for the millions who just want to drive, it’s huge.
