Waze against Google Maps: the match between the navigation giants close to delivering its verdict?

Monday 13th January 2025 03:34 AM

In comparison, Waze, although also belonging to Googleattracts only 27% of drivers, and Apple Plans, only 25%.

Google Maps, the new favorite

The advantages of Google Maps? A fluid interfacea real-time traffic predictionand precise alternative routes. Above all, the integration with the Google ecosystem appeals to users. Even iPhone owners, often loyal to Apple services, now opt for Google Maps.

Since 2023, Waze is going through turbulence : connection problems, less optimal route suggestions… These flaws have weakened the reputation of the application. Meanwhile, Google Maps has integrated some of the best Waze featuresnotably community alerts, thanks to the rapprochement of the two teams.

The editorial team advises you

Google seems to want to gradually merge the strengths of its two services. However, this strategy could seal Waze's fate, especially if Maps continues to gain traction.

Brakes in France?

In France, the situation is slightly different. Speed camera warning devices are prohibited by law (article R. 413-15 of the Highway Code), which limits the ability of Google Maps to compete with Waze on this point. Waze circumvents this ban by proposing “control zones” or “vigilance zones”, a legal but effective approach.

Google Maps, on the other hand, does not yet offer such solutions. French motorists must use third-party tools like TomTom Amigo to benefit from similar alerts. This absence is explained by Google's desire to make Maps a universal navigation appuseful to motorists and pedestrians alike.

An inevitable merger?

However, the boundary between the two applications is rapidly shrinking. Integrating Waze Community Alerts into Google Mapsincluding reports of police checks or accidents, is already in progress. Ultimately, when these features are deployed on a large scale, Waze could lose its last competitive advantageeven in France.

Conclusion : Waze, once essential, could soon give way to Google Maps, the new champion of navigation applications. A development that marks a turning point for motorists around the world.