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ZDNet
Waze just gave me 5 new reasons to switch from Apple Maps
Waze has rolled out an update to its navigation app that includes five new features, appealing to both iOS and Android users. Among these, the motorcycle mode tailors routes for motorcyclists, while personalized navigation suggests routes based on past trips and local traffic analysis. The update also introduces a less intrusive voice mode, making driving less disrupted by navigation prompts. Additional features allow users to suggest map changes by voice and request location-specific search queries, enhancing its utility and user experience compared to Apple Maps.
MonitorConfidence: HighImmediate horizon
Published 15 Jul 2026, 14:00 UTC5 min read
Lead image — ZDNet
Brief
NewsBite reading:Waze Unveils Five New Features to Compete with Apple Maps
TL;DR
- New motorcycle mode provides motorcyclists with tailored routing and hazard information.
- Personalized navigation suggests routes based on user preferences and history.
- Less chatty mode reduces voice interruptions during navigation.
- Voice commands allow users to easily suggest map changes.
- Features aimed at enhancing user experience and flexibility in navigation.
Interesting facts
- Motorcycle mode is initially available only in select countries.
- Waze offers a more flexible solution for drivers wanting to avoid specific routes.
- Suggesting map updates via voice enhances community engagement in map accuracy.
What changed
Waze introduced five new features, including motorcycle routing and personalized navigation options.
Unchanged: Core navigation capabilities of Waze continue to function as they did previously.
What we still don't know
- The timing of availability for certain features in specific regions is not clear.
Decision signal
Decision brief
Actionable takeaways
- Explore new features in Waze for better trip navigation.
- Consider switching to Waze for trips that require motorcycle routes.
- Use personalized navigation settings to enhance driving experiences.
- Provide feedback to Waze about your experiences to improve community map accuracy.
Decision signal
Monitor
Technical significance
Meaningful
Competitive impact
Threatens incumbents
Source reliability
High
Impact certainty
High
Novelty
Medium
Execution risk
Low
Strategic weight
High
Trend: Accelerating
- Increased competition among navigation apps.
- Growing demand for personalized travel experiences.
Personalized guidance
Audience lens
Board
- Monitor competitive landscape for navigation apps.
CTO
- Consider integrating user feedback mechanisms for app improvements.
Startup founders
- Explore partnerships with navigation or location-based service firms.
Investors
- Observe user adoption rates post feature rollout.
Engineering
- Focus on user experience for feature integration.
Developers
- Stay updated on best practices for voice command integrations.
Marketing
- Promote new features to attract users from competitors.
Consumers
- Leverage newly available features for improved navigation.
Sentiment signal
Sentiment
Overall: PositiveMood: Bullish
The overall sentiment is positive as Waze enhances its offering, potentially attracting new users from competitors.
Drivers
Introduction of innovative features.Improved user experience compared to existing navigation solutions.
By category
navigationPositive
Enhancements introduce new functionalities that cater to diverse user needs, improving overall navigation experience.
Notable entities
WazeapplicationPositive
The application is enhancing its capabilities, making it more attractive to users.
Apple MapsapplicationNegative
Apple Maps is losing ground in functionality compared to Waze.
Market signal
Impact & reach
Introduction of five new features enhances Waze's overall user experience and competitive edge.
These updates position Waze as a stronger competitor against Apple Maps by offering features not currently available, potentially increasing user adoption and satisfaction in navigation apps.
consumersPositive
Consumers benefit from improved navigation options that provide more convenience and tailored routes.
Geographic focus
GlobalPositive
The features have a broad appeal for users across various regions.
Likely winners
Waze
Likely losers
Apple Maps
Risk signal
Risk radar
Cybersecurity riskMedium
As with any app, there's inherent risk related to user data security.
Data governance riskMedium
User data handling for personalized features may raise privacy concerns.
Reputational riskLow
Waze's updates likely improve its reputation.
Execution riskLow
Features are low-risk to implement and likely enhance app functionality.
Infrastructure riskLow
Infrastructure for navigation apps remains robust.
Geopolitical riskLow
No significant geopolitical implications.
Regulatory riskLow
No major regulatory concerns identified.
Supply chain riskLow
Minimal supply chain dependencies for app features.
Talent displacement riskLow
No immediate talent displacement concerns identified.
AI liability riskLow
Risks related to AI use in routing are manageable.