Google Maps now offers real time traffic reports from Waze. Earlier this summer, the search giant acquired Waze, a popular map application that uses crowdsourcing to compile traffic reports.
On Tuesday, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) shared the following in a blog post, “This means when Wazers report accidents, construction, road closures, and more on Waze, the updates will also appear on the Google Maps app for Android and iOS in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, France, Germany, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Switzerland, U.K., and the U.S.”
This change should also prove to be a win for Waze users as well. Google Search is now available on Waze’s applications for iOS and Android which allows users to explore more search results. Waze Map Editor now has Google Street View for more accurate views and maps.
Brian McClendon explained why this change is good
The vice president of Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) maps Brian McClendon explained why this change is good. He said, ““I think it will have a pretty big impact. A big fraction of GMM users will see these. We are cross-pollinating as much as possible. We’re learning a lot both ways; it’s a very strong meeting of the minds.”
Waze will still be able to continue helping people commute as well as strengthening their community.
Google plans on keeping their Maps and Waze applications separate
The one downfall for Waze users is that their names won’t be credited for their reports. Interesting enough though, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has shared the fact that the Waze deal has been reviewed by the United States Federal Trade Commission. Even more interesting, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has opened up about their matters with the FTC.
For now, Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) plans on keeping their Maps and Waze applications separate. Both apps are useful and provide separate but equal services. In the not-so-distant future, things could change but for now McClendon is happy with the current maps situation.
