Google has updated both Maps and Waze with enhanced user interface elements designed to make it easier to find your destination and stay aware of road hazards.
In the latest update, Google Maps now features a prominent, easy-to-tap reporting icon. By tapping this icon, you can quickly submit a report about any issues you encounter. Other drivers passing through the same area can confirm the presence of the hazard with just one tap. These reports are sourced from both Google Maps and Waze users, and you can see which app was used to make the report if you’re interested.
New Incident Reporting and Destination Guidance Make Waze and Maps More Powerful
This improved incident reporting interface is rolling out worldwide starting today. It’s available on Google Maps for both Android and iOS, as well as in vehicles with Google built-in, and on Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Google Maps is introducing a new feature to make destination guidance clearer and more intuitive. Soon, the app will highlight the building you’re headed to, marking its entrance and showing nearby parking lots. This will help you easily locate your destination with just a glance.
This feature will be available worldwide in the coming weeks and can be accessed on Google Maps for Android and iOS, as well as in vehicles with Google built-in and on Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Waze is introducing new types of camera alerts to help drivers stay informed about various traffic regulations. You will now receive warnings about cameras that detect speeding, running red lights, using restricted lanes (like bus-only lanes), not wearing a seatbelt, and using your phone while driving. This update is being rolled out globally and is available on the Waze app for both Android and iOS.
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Furthermore, Waze now allows you to share real-time traffic updates with friends. If you encounter increased traffic or road closures due to events like sports games or parades—affecting areas you frequently drive through or have saved in Waze—you’ll receive a notification with details about the event and current road conditions. You can then easily share this information with friends and family. This way, you’ll help them avoid potential delays if they’re traveling through the same area.
Google Maps and Waze Get the Same Features for a Streamlined Experience
When Google acquired Waze, we thought that the company could eventually merge both Maps and Waze into a single service. The company added several Waze features to Google Maps, but both still operate as individual services. The latest feature update brings the same features and same functionality to both applications. Therefore, users won’t miss the experience regardless of the service they’re using. Google’s approach is to keep both apps co-existence, but we won’t be surprised if they are merged into a unique experience in a distant future.
The latest update made Google Maps near to Waze in terms of appearance. This shows how Google is putting effort into bringing users from Waze to its Maps platform. It’s another hint that Google would focus on Maps if it could. However, the current popularity of Waze keeps the company’s ongoing strategy of supporting both apps at the same time.
Conclusion
The new updates will make Google Maps and Waze more powerful and rich in features. The new incident reporting offers a more convenient way for users to make reports while they’re navigating. The Destination Guidance is also a great way to bring you more information about the place you’re heading to with the app. We expect both apps to keep getting updates to improve the navigation.
