Google continues to refine its navigation tools, with recent updates bringing Google Maps and Waze closer together in functionality while maintaining their distinct user bases. The latest enhancements aim to improve the overall user experience by integrating some of the most popular features of each app into the other.
Enhanced Incident Reporting in Google Maps
One of the most significant updates to Google Maps is the enhanced incident reporting, a feature that Waze users have long enjoyed. Google Maps now allows users to report incidents such as road closures, construction zones, speed cameras, and police presence with larger, more visible icons. This feature not only makes it easier for users to share important updates but also allows other drivers to confirm the reports with a simple tap, ensuring that the information remains accurate and up-to-date.
Building Entrances and Nearby Parking
In addition to incident reporting, Google Maps is also introducing a new feature that provides detailed destination guidance. As users approach their destination, the app will highlight the exact building they are navigating to by marking it in red, with a green indicator pointing to the main entrance. This feature aims to make it easier for users to identify their destination, particularly in complex or crowded urban areas. Furthermore, Google Maps will now display nearby parking options, helping drivers find a convenient place to park without the stress of circling the block multiple times.
Waze Gets More Camera Alerts and Event Prompts
While Google Maps is adopting features from Waze, the latter is also getting some new tricks of its own. Waze users can now report a wider variety of traffic cameras, including those that monitor bus lanes, HOV lanes, seat belt usage, and even whether a driver is texting while driving. These updates are designed to provide Waze users with more comprehensive information about potential traffic violations and help them avoid fines.
Moreover, Waze is rolling out a new feature specifically designed to notify users about events that might impact their commute. This feature will alert users to road closures and traffic disruptions caused by local events such as marathons, concerts, or sports games. For instance, during the 2024 Olympics, Waze will provide real-time updates about road closures near event venues, ensuring that users can plan their routes accordingly. This feature will be particularly useful for those who frequently drive in areas where large events are common.
Google’s Approach to Navigational Apps
Despite the increasing similarities between Google Maps and Waze, Google is committed to keeping the two apps separate. Can Comertoglu, Head of Product for Google Maps, emphasized that each app has its own dedicated user base with unique preferences. “Waze users prefer some of the things that Waze does over Google Maps, and we know the reverse is true as well,” Comertoglu stated during a recent press briefing. This sentiment was echoed by Tim Queenan, Waze’s Director, who highlighted the strong community of over 500,000 contributors who actively help keep Waze’s data accurate and up-to-date.
Availability of New Features
The new features in Google Maps, including the enhanced incident reporting and destination guidance, are rolling out to Android, iOS, and cars with Google built-in, as well as on Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Users can expect to see these updates in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Waze’s new camera alerts and event notifications are already being introduced, with the event prompts starting with the 2024 Olympic Games and expanding to cover future events as well.
For a deeper dive into these updates, visit The Verge.