Waze rolls out new customization features and more Gemini updates
Waze introduces motorcycle-specific routing, personalized navigation, and reduced voice prompts, alongside new AI-powered features for map updates and destination searches.
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The useful question is what changes for users, developers or buyers, and whether the announcement stays industry context or becomes something people can actually use.
Waze has launched a new motorcycle mode that uses AI to suggest routes tailored for two-wheelers, highlighting hazards like potholes and narrow bridges. The feature is available in seven countries, including Argentina, Brazil, and Mexico, with more regions expected to follow. The update leverages real-time traffic data and contributions from dedicated motorcycle map editors to improve rider safety and route accuracy.
The navigation app now offers personalized route suggestions based on past trips, prioritizing preferences like highways over local streets. Users can disable this feature or choose alternative routes in settings. This update is rolling out globally on both Android and iOS platforms, aiming to align navigation with individual driving habits and city traffic patterns.
A new 'less chatty mode' reduces the frequency of voice prompts, allowing drivers to focus on music or podcasts while still receiving critical alerts for hazards, turns, and lane changes. The feature is available worldwide on Android and iOS, providing a quieter driving experience without compromising safety.
Waze has expanded its Conversational Reporting to include map updates, enabling users to verbally report issues like road closures or outdated addresses. Additionally, Gemini-powered voice search now helps users find destinations by criteria such as open businesses, parking availability, or gas prices. These features are rolling out globally on Android and iOS, with the voice search update initially available to the Waze beta community.