Google and Waze are being updated with new features with helpful features to keep users safer and informed while on-the-go.
Report incidents more easily in Maps to help the community
To help fellow drivers stay informed on the road, Maps is making it easier to report incidents and helpful information, such as nearby construction, lane closures, objects, and police presence. These reports come from the Maps and Waze communities, and users can even see which app a report originated from. Larger reporting icons are now available, making it simpler to share updates—like a closed lane that backed up traffic on the way to work. Other drivers can confirm the incident with just a tap to assist those passing by. This improved incident reporting feature in Maps is rolling out globally on Android and iOS, as well as cars with Google built-in, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Take the stress out of reaching the destination with new guidance in Maps
Navigating to new buildings—like a friend’s large apartment complex—can be confusing when it’s unclear where to enter or park upon arrival. Maps’ new destination guidance will automatically highlight the building and its entrance as users approach it, along with nearby parking lots. This feature is particularly helpful when heading to an unfamiliar place at night or in low light conditions. Destination guidance in Maps will be available globally on Android and iOS, as well as cars with Google built-in, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay in the coming weeks.
Stay aware during drives with new camera alerts in Waze
Certain cities worldwide are adding cameras to enforce speed limits or carpool lanes. To enhance awareness and compliance with local laws, Waze is introducing the ability to see new types of cameras. These alerts, added by Waze community members, use a mix of real-world road information and publicly available data from local authorities. For instance, alerts will now notify users of cameras that capture images for speeding, running red lights, using restricted lanes (like bus, HOV, or carpool), not wearing seatbelts, or using phones while driving. These alerts serve as helpful reminders about local traffic rules. The new camera types on Waze are rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
Share real-time traffic information with friends in Waze
Events like parades, concerts, and sporting events can lead to road congestion. With Waze’s new traffic events feature, users will gain a better understanding of how these events impact nearby traffic. If driving through an affected area or saving places near the event in Waze, users will receive notifications once the event has started. Helpful details such as the cause of the event, road closures, and real-time traffic conditions will be provided. Users can also easily share these details with friends and family to help them prepare for their own trips. The new traffic events feature in Waze is rolling out globally on Android and iOS now.
Navigate while the screen is locked with Waze
For added convenience, Waze drivers can now receive navigation guidance—such as turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, or hazard alerts—while their phone remains securely locked. Lock screen navigation is launching globally on Waze for Android this month, with availability for iOS coming this fall.
These new features and helpful alerts on Google Maps and Waze will keep users informed during their travels.