Waze just got smarter thanks to Gemini and two new modes

Today, Google announced some new features that are already rolling out to Waze on Android and iOS. If you had Gemini on your bingo card, you won.

Gemini is already used in Waze for "conversational reporting", which lets you report traffic incidents just by talking naturally. Now, Gemini will also let you use natural language to suggest map updates, like a road closure or outdated address. You can just say something like "the road is closed here" and Gemini will send the details to Waze's local map editors, who will verify the suggestion and update the map.

Gemini can also help you find a destination. You can tap the search voice icon before you navigate to ask for the nearest coffee shop that's open, parking close to a mall, or a gas station with the lowest prices. This is now rolling out to the Waze beta testers globally on Android and iOS.

Additionally, Waze is getting a motorcycle mode in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, and the Philippines on Android and iOS. More countries will be added soon. This uses AI to "incorporate two-wheeler shortcuts and restrictions", and shows hazards that are "tricky for riders" - potholes, speed bumps, raised crosswalks, shoulder endings, and narrow bridges.

Waze's navigation is becoming more personalized. It will suggest routes based on your past trips. You can turn this off in the app's settings if you don't like it.

The app is also adding a new "less chatty" mode, which minimizes the number of voice prompts and keeps them short, so you can focus on your music or a podcast. It will still give you critical reminders about hazards, turns, and lane changes, but will do so less frequently.

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