Waze rolls out new customization features and more Gemini updates

Waze announced new customization features and expanded Gemini capabilities for its navigation app. The company said it is adding a motorcycle mode that uses AI to incorporate two-wheeler shortcuts and restrictions while showing hazards such as potholes, speed bumps, raised crosswalks, shoulder endings and narrow bridges. The mode is rolling out now in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru and the Philippines on Android and iOS with more countries planned. Waze also said it will suggest routes based on previous trips in addition to hyperlocal traffic patterns. Personalized navigation is rolling out globally on Android and iOS and users can turn off the feature in settings. A new less chatty mode minimizes the number of voice prompts and keeps them short while still providing critical reminders about hazards, turns and lane changes. That feature is also rolling out globally on Android and iOS. Conversational Reporting now allows users to suggest map updates such as road closures or outdated addresses by speaking naturally. The company said local map editors verify suggestions before updating the map. The feature is rolling out globally on Android and iOS. Waze also said beta community members globally on Android and iOS can now use Gemini capabilities to find destinations by asking questions such as finding a coffee shop open now or a gas station with the lowest prices.