Waze, the Google-owned navigation app, is rolling out several new AI-driven features and customization options. Some of these updates use the Google Gemini AI assistant, part of Google’s broader move to integrate Gemini across its product lineup.
Personalized routing
Waze will now suggest routes based on a user’s past trips and the app’s understanding of a city’s traffic patterns. For example, if a driver prefers highways over local streets, highway-based routes will be prioritized. Users can still pick alternate routes or disable personalization entirely in settings. Personalized navigation is rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
Conversational destination search with Gemini
Users can also use Gemini to find destinations through a quick conversational search when they know what they want but not the exact place. Tapping the search voice icon lets users ask queries such as “Find me a coffee shop that’s open right now,” “Find me parking close to Grand Mall,” or “Find me a gas station nearby with the lowest prices.” Waze then returns a list of options. This Gemini-powered destination search is currently available to the Waze beta community globally on Android and iOS.
Motorcycle mode for two‑wheelers
Waze is adding a Motorcycle mode that leverages AI to account for two-wheeler-specific shortcuts and road restrictions, helping riders find better routes and providing more accurate ETAs. The mode also highlights hazards that can be particularly problematic for riders — potholes, speed bumps, raised crosswalks, shoulder endings, and narrow bridges. Motorcycle mode is rolling out now in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, and the Philippines on Android and iOS, with more countries planned.
Conversational map-update reporting
Beyond reporting traffic incidents by voice, Waze now lets users suggest map updates conversationally, including reporting road closures or outdated addresses. For example, saying “The road is closed here” will forward those details to local map editors. This conversational option for road updates is rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
‘Less chatty’ mode
A new “less chatty” setting reduces the number and length of voice prompts for drivers who want fewer interruptions while listening to music or podcasts. Critical alerts for hazards and turns remain, but they are delivered less frequently. Less chatty mode is rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
Why this matters
The updates aim to make Waze more personalized and safer for two‑wheeler riders, while conversational reporting and Gemini integration simplify destination search and map editing. Collectively, the changes also reinforce Waze’s position against competing navigation services such as Apple Maps.
