Waze Releases New AI-Based Feature, Motorcyclists Can Now Get Safer Routes

Waze officially launched a major update that brings a series of new AI-based features. (photo: dok. androidheadlines)

JAKARTA - Waze officially launched a major update that presents a series of new artificial intelligence (AI) based features. The Google navigation application now offers a safer, more personal, and more comfortable driving experience through the integration of Gemini AI, a special mode for motorcyclists, to more flexible voice settings.

Overall, there are five main features introduced in the latest Waze update. All of them are designed to help users reach their destinations more efficiently while minimizing distractions during the journey.

Motorcycle Special Mode

One of the most interesting updates is the presence of Motorcycle Mode. Unlike car navigation, this feature uses an AI-based routing system that is specifically designed for the needs of two-wheeled riders.

Through traffic data and the contribution of Waze map editors, the application can recognize various road conditions that can potentially endanger motorcyclists, such as narrow bridges, high sleeping police, and lanes that are not suitable for two-wheeled vehicles.

Not only that, Waze will also recommend alternative routes and shortcuts that are considered faster for motorcyclists.

Currently, the new Motorcycle Mode is available in Brazil and Mexico. Google plans to expand support to more countries in the future.

"Less Chatty" Mode, More Concise Voice Instructions

For users who feel disturbed by voice instructions that are too frequent, Waze now presents the Less Chatty feature.

This mode reduces the frequency of voice guidance so that users can enjoy music or podcasts without many interruptions. However, Waze will still provide important warnings, such as turns, accidents, or dangers on the road, but in a shorter and necessary form.

Makin Personal Route According to User Habits

The latest update also makes Waze better understand the driving habits of its users.

The app can now learn previous travel patterns. For example, if a user chooses a toll road more often than an arterial road, Waze will prioritize similar routes on the next trip.

However, this feature is optional and can be disabled through the settings menu if users prefer the standard route recommendations.

Gemini AI Now Can Be Talked To

Gemini AI integration is one of the biggest improvements in this update.

Users can now report various road conditions just by using voice commands. For example, when finding a road that is closed or there is a change in traffic conditions, users just have to say it to Waze. The information will then be forwarded to the local map editor to be verified before being updated in the system.

In addition to reporting road conditions, Gemini AI can also help find travel destinations without having to type.

Users simply press the microphone button and say requests such as "find a gas station with the cheapest gas price" or "coffee shop that is still open". Waze will then display a selection of locations that can be used as navigation destinations.

Not Available in Indonesia

For the time being, most of these new features have only been launched in several countries, namely Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, and the Philippines.

Google states that this update will be gradually expanded to more regions in the near future. Until now, there has been no official information regarding the schedule for launching these features for Waze users in Indonesia.

With this update, Waze is further confirming its position as a navigation application that not only relies on real-time traffic data, but also utilizes artificial intelligence to provide a safer, more efficient, and more personalized driving experience for each user.