Forget Google Maps — Waze just got a huge upgrade that will help millions of drivers
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A new version of Waze is now being released for Android and iOS phones (via 9to5Google ). While Waze 5.4 brings several updates, the biggest is support for heads-up displays behind steering wheels.
These days, many modern cars feature two displays: one generally on the center console that acts as the infotainment panel where you can access Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and another in front of the driver that has largely replaced the instrument panel gauges of yore.
That driver-focused display is where Waze is adding new coverage. Functionally, this means you can glance at the dash display for navigation cues without looking down at the infotainment panel, meaning your eyes are more on the road than your car's interior.
What it looks like
Credit: Reddit user misterperfectman
The new feature is only available on vehicles that support Android and CarPlay on the panel, including some BMW, Ford and Polestar.
Some Redditors have gotten access to the feature on their cars and posted photos showing the Waze navigation on the display. Based on the images, it's pretty minimal.
Google has owned Waze since 2013 and has borrowed many features from the map app. Still, it's survived as its app with a more straightforward interface and community focus.
We may see more integration like this in Apple Maps whenever Apple launches Apple CarPlay 2.0, which has been delayed for a few years.
