Waze, the world’s largest community-based traffic and navigation app, is now compatible with Android Auto. The app goes beyond just navigating the red lines on the map; it gives a heads-up to the driver on happenings like traffic, police presence and so on.
Waze is now an in-car interface that presents some smartphone features on the built-in screen. It supports any vehicle that is compatible with a bring-your–own infotainment solution.
Waze looks less cluttered while the essential functions are retained: sharing information about traffic, police presence and other issues on the road that the driver may be looking forward to for a smooth and quick drive. Thanks to the developers for getting away from distracting ads. So the app not only looks less cluttered, but the navigation layout is clear and concise. Information like a gas station close by and so on is included, which is an advantage.
Waze is integrated only on Android Auto for now. iPhone users have a similar option – Apple CarPlay – but Apple does not have any plans of bringing in third party apps for now.
While Waze features seem to be far more powerful than Google Maps, the source says that it wasn’t great in beta version as it had connectivity issues, and voice commands weren’t consistent. The team might plug these issues before the launch.
The Android Auto version is much more simplified with respect to the touch screen and is within easy access while driving, with less distraction. However, the experience may differ based on the make of car. During the test, it has been noted that the cars with touch screens were easier to operate Waze on, and there were slight variations in how the menu display showed, especially with differences in the infotainment systems.
While the Waze app may look a little ‘cartoony’ and fun, it is a powerful tool and has a lot of advantages. On the other hand, it has its disadvantages as well, like connectivity issues in remote areas as it works through phone data.
All built-in car navigation systems have their maps stored on board, whereas Waze and all phone based navigation apps depend on web connectivity to access theirs. Waze is currently available for free download through the Google Play Store. More feature like speed limit indicators may be in store, but nothing has been officially announced.
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