Gemini moves deeper into Waze as Google makes navigation more conversational
Google is expanding the AI technology already used in Waze’s reporting tools to help drivers find destinations, suggest map updates and personalize their routes.
Google is expanding the role of its Gemini AI technology inside Waze, adding new capabilities that allow drivers to search for destinations and suggest map updates using natural voice commands. The move builds on Waze’s existing use of Gemini capabilities in Conversational Reporting, which already allows users to report traffic incidents by speaking naturally.
The updates are part of a broader effort to make Waze more personalized and interactive, giving drivers more control over their routes while reducing the need to navigate through menus or manually enter information.
The first new Gemini-powered feature focuses on destination search. Before starting navigation, users will be able to tap the search voice icon and ask questions 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 will respond with a list of options, after which users can begin navigation using voice commands. The feature is currently rolling out to the Waze beta community globally on Android and iOS.
Google is also expanding Waze’s Conversational Reporting capabilities. The feature already uses Gemini technology to help drivers report traffic incidents such as slowdowns through natural speech. The new update extends that capability to map corrections, allowing users to suggest changes such as road closures or outdated addresses.
"Just say, ‘The road is closed here’ and Waze will send these details to local map editors, who verify the suggestion and update the map," wrote Gai Berkovich, VP & General Manager at Waze and Site Lead at Google IL.
The approach is designed to make updating maps easier by replacing traditional reporting forms with a conversation-style interface. While the information is submitted through the app, changes will still be reviewed and verified by Waze’s local map editors before being incorporated.
Alongside the Gemini updates, Waze is introducing personalized navigation that takes into account drivers’ previous trips alongside the app’s understanding of local traffic patterns. For example, users who typically prefer highways over local roads with frequent stops will see those routes suggested first.
Users who do not want personalized recommendations will be able to choose alternative routes or disable the feature through the app’s settings. Personalized navigation is rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
Waze is also addressing one of the long-standing frustrations among drivers: too many voice alerts. A new “less chatty” mode reduces the number and length of spoken instructions while continuing to provide critical warnings about hazards, turns and lane changes.
The feature is designed for drivers who prefer fewer interruptions while listening to music or podcasts and is rolling out globally on Android and iOS.
Another major update is the introduction of a dedicated motorcycle mode, designed around the different needs of two-wheeled vehicles. Unlike cars, motorcycles can travel on narrower roads and are more sensitive to road conditions.
The new mode uses Waze’s real-time traffic data, motorcycle-specific routing information and input from a dedicated group of motorcycle map editors to suggest suitable routes and highlight hazards that are particularly relevant to riders.
These include potholes, speed bumps, raised crosswalks, shoulder endings and narrow bridges. Motorcycle mode is rolling out in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru and the Philippines on Android and iOS, with additional countries planned.
