The Waze application, the most famous navigation application in the world and the most used in Saudi Arabia, has entered a completely new phase. Google has decided to integrate its smart assistant Gemini with Waze, in order to transform the driving experience from just maps and directions to a smart assistant that interacts with you by voice and understands your requests.
What happened to Waze exactly?
Google announced 4 major updates in Waze, two of which are supported by Gemini AI (the most powerful artificial intelligence from Google). In summary:
- Smart voice reporting: You can say “there’s an accident in front of me” or “this street is closed” and Waze will understand and record the report automatically without you having to touch the screen.
- Voice search for destinations: Instead of typing, you can say “show me a nearby open cafe” or “the best and cheapest gas station near me”. Gemini will understand and execute.
- “Less chatter” mode: If you’re annoyed by the application’s frequent talking while driving, there’s a mode that reduces voice alerts. Ideal for those who like to listen to podcasts or music while driving.
- Motorcycle mode: Dedicated to motorcycles, which shortens routes and calculates arrival time more accurately based on actual traffic movement.
- Route recommendations based on your habits: Waze learns what you prefer — fast routes or internal routes — and suggests the appropriate route based on your travel history.
Why is this update important for Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabia is one of the countries that uses Waze the most. With the huge expansion in roads and new cities (NEOM, Qiddiya, Diriyah) and the development of the high-speed road network, having a navigation application that understands your spoken language and guides you to the best route has become a necessity, not a luxury.
Also, with the large projects in Riyadh and the expansion in Mecca and Medina, congestion has become a daily thing. Waze with Gemini can suggest an alternative route at the moment and help you avoid congestion before you reach it.
For example, during the month of Ramadan, peak hours before iftar and after tarawih, smart voice updates allow you to report congestion or accidents without distracting your attention while you’re fasting or in a hurry.
Most important points that interest you
- The update is free — without additional fees. It’s enough that the application is updated to the latest version.
- Gemini is working in English first, but it’s expected that Arabic (general dialect and Gulf dialect) will be supported soon.
- The voice reporting feature works in the background — you don’t need to have the application open in front of you.
- Motorcycle mode is available immediately in supported areas.
- The data that Waze learns from your habits is all encrypted and depends on your personal account.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs Waze’s new features?
Everyone who drives — from daily commuters who go to work, to delivery representatives, motorcycle riders, and families who travel between cities. Anyone who uses Waze will benefit, especially those who hate touching their phone while driving.
Where are these features available?
The features are being rolled out gradually to all countries. Saudi Arabia is among the regions where Waze is active with strength, and the arrival of features in Saudi Arabia is expected within weeks of the launch. Some features (such as voice search and recommendations) require an internet connection.
What is the cost of the update?
Completely free. Waze is a free application, and all of Gemini’s features that were added are without fees. All you need is to download the latest version of the application from the Apple Store or Google Play.
How long does the update process take?
Downloading the update itself takes two minutes. Activating the features is done automatically after the update is downloaded — without complicated settings or subscriptions.
How do I use the new voice features?
After updating the application, press the microphone icon in the driving interface and say your request. For example: “report an accident” or “show me a nearby restaurant”. The feature works even if you’re not using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Just make sure the application has microphone permission.
In Summary
Waze is no longer just a mapping app — it’s a smart assistant in your car. With Gemini, you can report accidents, find destinations, and choose the best route while staying focused on the road. For Saudis who drive a lot, this is a significant upgrade that makes driving easier and safer.
