Google Maps and Waze get new features

Google is bringing a number of exciting updates to its two navigation apps, Google Maps and Waze.

These new features include improvements that bring the two applications closer together, while maintaining their unique identities, offering new features that promise to make navigation even more efficient and intuitive for users.

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Feature integration between Google Maps and Waze

One of the most notable updates is the integration of Waze features directly into Google Maps. Maps now offers a Waze-like incident reporting system, allowing users to share real-time updates on road closures, construction, speed cameras, and police presence, all with larger, more visible icons.

Additionally, other drivers will be able to confirm these incidents with a simple tap, increasing the accuracy of the information shared.

But despite these improvements, Google Maps and Waze will continue to exist as separate apps.

During a press conference, Google Maps product manager Can Comertoglu highlighted that Waze users are extremely dedicated and value specific features it offers.

“They prefer some of the things Waze does over Google Maps, and we know the reverse is also true.”Comertoglu said. Waze currently has more than 500,000 active contributors, according to Waze CEO Tim Queenan.

What’s new on Google Maps

In addition to the incident reporting improvements, Google Maps is also getting a new destination guidance feature that identifies building entrances as users approach them.

The feature will highlight the building the user is heading to in red and indicate the main entrance with a green marker. In addition, the app will start showing parking lots near the destination, making it even easier to get there.

These improvements to Google Maps are rolling out now to users on Android, iOS, vehicles with Google built-in, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The new destination guidance functionality will be available in the coming weeks.

New Waze features

Not to be outdone by Google Maps’ updates, Waze is also getting new features. Waze users can now report new types of traffic cameras, including those that monitor whether a driver is in the bus or HOV lane, and those that check for seatbelt use or whether a driver is texting while driving.

Additionally, Waze is launching a dedicated event information experience that can inform you about road closures for local events like marathons, concerts or sports games.

Users will receive push notifications after the first road closure for events near frequent locations, such as their work or home. This new feature will launch alongside the 2024 Olympic Games and will be available for future events as well.

Source: Google