Google has updated Maps and Waze with refined UI elements to help you find your destination more easily and be more aware of traffic and other hazards on the road.
First, Google Maps now has a big, easy-to-tap reporting icon — tap it and select the relevant report. Other drivers passing the same location can confirm with just a tap that the hazard is still there. Note that these reports are coming from both Google Maps and Waze users (and if you’re curious, you can see which app was used to submit the report).
The improved incident report UI is rolling out globally starting today. It’s available on Google Maps for Android and iOS, cars with Google Maps built-in, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Google Maps will soon have easy navigation to your destination. It will highlight the building leading to your destination, including marking its entrance and showing nearby parking lots, so you can know where to go at a glance.
The feature will be available globally in the coming weeks. It’s available on Google Maps for Android and iOS, cars with Google Maps built-in, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Waze will show new types of cameras – you’ll be warned about cameras that detect speeding, running red lights, using the wrong lane (such as bus-only lanes), as well as cameras that may detect if you’re not wearing a seat belt or are on your phone.
It’s now rolling out globally on the Waze app for Android and iOS.
Waze also lets you share real-time traffic information with friends. In the event of increased traffic or road closures due to sporting events, parades, etc. that affect areas you drive through regularly (or that you’ve saved in Waze), you’ll get a notification with details about the event and road conditions. You can then share these details with friends and family to warn them, if you know they’ll be passing through that area too.
It’s currently available globally on Waze for Android and iOS.
Finally, Waze will soon gain the ability to continue providing navigation instructions even when your phone is locked. This includes turn instructions, traffic updates, hazard warnings.
Lock screen navigation will be available on the Android app globally this month, and will also come to the iOS version in the autumn.
