Waze introduces motorcycle mode, more conversational AI features

Google has updated its Waze navigation app to include a new mode for motorcyclists, and deeper integration with the search giant's Gemini AI assistant. 

The new motorcycle mode takes into account narrower streets that can be suitable for motorbikes, but not cars. Its routing algorithm will also factor in road hazards that are more problematic for bike riders, such as potholes, speed humps, and raised pedestrian crossings.

Unfortunately, we don't know when motorcycle mode will be available in Australia, with the feature coming first to Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru and the Philippines. Google says "more countries on the way", but hasn't laid out a timeline for the rest of the world.

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As part of the suite of updates there's also new, optional personalised navigation, which uses previously taken routes to generate path suggestions, and a new "less chatty" setting to minimise the number of voice prompts and their duration so drivers can enjoy their music or podcasts with less interruption.

As with other Google products, the other Waze changes centre around deeper integration with the company's Gemini AI voice assistant. The conversational reporting feature has now been extended from traffic incidents to map updates, such as road closures or an outdated business address. 

Gemini can now also be used to help find a destination, such as a "car park near the Wooloowin train station", a "petrol station with the lowest price in Hornsby", or a "cafe open right now". For now, this feature is only available to beta users, and it's not clear when it will be ready for general release.

Personalised navigation and the extension of conversational reporting are being rolled out globally on both iPhone and Android devices.

Waze can be used directly on a smartphone, accessed through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, or via infotainment systems that have access to the Google Play app store.