Waze is in the testing phase for an original feature: “conversational reporting”. This new feature allows drivers to report incidents directly by voice, by speaking with the app, without having to manipulate the screen while driving. Using AI built into Google’s Gemini model, Waze can “understand” informal descriptions, such as: “ There seems to be a traffic jam further on » or « There is an object on the road ».
Natural language voice reporting
This voice control system, in beta phase, is currently rolling out to a group of trusted testers on Android and iOS, but only in English. The technology behind the project is designed to interpret descriptions in natural language, without the need for specific commands or precise terms.
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« Drivers will be able to simply describe what they see, as if they were talking to a passenger “, explained a Waze spokesperson. If the description is unclear or incomplete, the app may ask follow-up questions to get more details, for example: “ Can you clarify what you see? “. This innovation not only makes reporting faster but also reduces distraction, which contributes to better road safety.
Voice reporting is currently only available in English, but Waze has already announced its intention to expand this functionality to other languages in the coming months. If the tests are conclusive, “conversational reporting” could become one of the flagship functions of the application, which will strengthen its role in preventing incidents on the roads.
In parallel with this new reporting system, Waze is also launching the display of school zones on its maps, a function expected by many users concerned about the safety of pedestrians and young students. By adding school zones, Waze wants to make drivers aware of the potential dangers around these places, especially during school opening hours.
Eventually, drivers will receive an alert when they approach a school zone, which should prompt them to slow down and pay attention to pedestrians. This measure aims to protect students and remind drivers to respect the speed limits specific to these areas. In addition, Waze has made it possible for the community to modify these zones in order to improve the accuracy of the information according to schedules and local particularities. This deployment of school zones is planned for the end of the year, first on Android then iOS globally.
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