4 Ways Waze is the Best Navigation App

When it comes to driving with GPS navigation, there's just nothing better than Waze mobile app. In terms of features, it blows Google Maps out of the water. That's probably why Google paid over $1 billion for to acquire Waze in 2013. 

Here are four Waze features that set it apart from other geo-navigation apps like Google Maps:

1. Detailed Real-Time Updates

The community-based nature of Waze makes it unmatchable for real-time updates about what's actually happening on the road. The app uses a crowdsourcing method to keep maps up-to-date, allowing drivers to edit maps and report roadside sightings - even cops! Drivers can report exactly where they see police officers so that drivers that come after them will be warned. When other drivers approach that spot, a pop-up notification and sound warn them up what's ahead. In fact, the app has been working so well to warn drivers of cops that some police officers in Miami, Florida started submitting tons of false Waze reports of police sightings to throw them off the trail!

2. Location-Based Amber Alerts

Last week, a location-based Amber Alerts feature was added to the Waze app. Drivers will receive alerts about missing children when they enter certain geographic areas where the child was abducted or may be found.  For safety reasons, the alerts will only be available when drivers have been stopped for more than 10 seconds.

3. Phone Crash Route Recovery

One great feature of the Waze app is its ability to recover from a phone or app crash. If either occur, Waze can restart and automatically generate a new route for you. 

4. Ability To Share Your ETA

If you're sick of getting calls every hour to check in on your whereabouts or estimated time of arrival, Waze is for you. Using the social features included in the app's functionality, you an actually share your location with friends and let them keep track of your progress and view an estimate of your arrival time. You can also use their "Pick Up" feature to request GPS coordinates of a friend who needs a ride (if they also have Waze) and when they accept that request, you will see directions to their location and they will be able to track your arrival in real time. 

Waze has a fun, community-based, and game-like feel that allows it to stand apart from any GPS-nagigation apps that came before it, but more than anything it provides some powerful and useful features that make it easier to be a smarter, safer driver.