Following other Google services, Waze will receive the Google Gemini artificial intelligence to improve personalized routing and add new voice-operated capabilities, The Verge reports.
Conversation-based incident reports and map suggestions
An enhancement is coming to the conversation-based reporting feature introduced in 2024: users will be able to report traffic issues by voice, and the AI can even suggest map updates if something has changed on the route or nearby.
Voice destination search
A new destination-search feature will work similarly: drivers can instruct Waze by voice to find destinations. For example, users can ask it to locate an open nearby café or gas station, and they can specify preferences such as choosing the cheapest fuel station.
Quieter voice prompts (non-AI feature)
Some additions do not rely on AI: users will be able to set Waze to speak less frequently, reducing interruptions while listening to podcasts or music. Crucial navigation instructions will still be announced.
Motorcycle mode and improved ETA
Waze adds a motorcycle mode with route options tailored for two-wheeled riders, including shortcuts that may only be passable by motorcycles. The app also brings modest improvements to estimated time of arrival (ETA) calculations.
Personalized routes based on past trips and local patterns
Waze will start recommending routes informed by users’ previous trips and local traffic patterns. If a user typically prefers highways, the app will prioritize highway routes in its suggestions.
Rollout and updates
These features are being rolled out gradually. Users should keep the Waze app updated via the Play Store and the App Store to receive the new functions as they become available.
