For some reason, it’s been a while since Google has updated the Android version of the Waze navigation app. And it’s kind of weird since of course Google owns Waze and all. But as they say, better late than never, as the app has released a video showing off what Android users can expect when Waze version 4.0 will finally hit the Google Play Store. There isn’t any date yet as to when the update will be released, but it is “coming soon”.
iOS users might look at the video and think that the update looks familiar. That is because they have had this version of Waze on their iPhones since October of last year. And from what it looks like on the video, it is more of a ported version of the iOS app rather than a Material Design update. But it is still a huge improvement on the current one which looks just a little bit updated. The UI has been refreshed, the animation has been added, and so navigating your way in both familiar and unfamiliar places is going to be much better.
The left side panel will give you easier access to your preset destinations. You will also get better alerts for what’s coming up ahead. The updated UI has also made it easier for you to report road events like traffic jams and accidents, to help your fellow Waze users. You can also now share your ETAs to chosen friends so they’ll know where you are and when to expect you.
The update to Waze 4.0 isn’t available yet but will be coming soon. Ride-sharing service Lyft has also added Waze to be the default navigation app for their drivers. Meanwhile, Waze is also testing out a ride-sharing feature that will be different from the current ones we have right now. Let’s wait for further announcements.
