Waze, the preferred navigation application for many automobile enthusiasts, is gearing up for a significant technological enhancement.

The Google-owned navigation platform has introduced new ways for users to tailor their driving experience, with the highlight being a dedicated mode for motorcyclists. Riders often require routes that differ from those used by cars—such as narrow alleyways or paths that avoid slippery surfaces—and Waze is deploying artificial intelligence to integrate motorcycle-specific routes, shortcuts, and restrictions. This new mode will focus on identifying road imperfections like potholes, speed breakers, and other hazards that pose heightened risks to two-wheelers. Initially, the Motorcycle Mode will be available in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, and the Philippines, with Waze confirming that more countries will follow soon.

The update also brings a new personalized navigation feature. Rather than focusing solely on the fastest or most efficient route, Waze will now recommend routes based on a user’s previous journeys. This means the app will adapt to local traffic conditions and driving habits. For example, if a user typically prefers inner-city roads over highways during rush hours, Waze will automatically suggest those city routes in future trips. Importantly, users can choose to disable the personalized navigation feature if they prefer.

Among other enhancements, Waze is adding a conversational reporting system that lets drivers verbally report road closures or hazards directly within the app. Additionally, a ‘less chatty’ mode has been introduced to reduce the frequency and length of voice prompts. While key navigation instructions and safety alerts will still be announced, interruptions to music or podcasts will be kept to a minimum. Both of these new features are being rolled out globally.

Waze is also integrating Google’s Gemini artificial intelligence to enhance its destination search capabilities. By tapping the voice search icon, users can ask for directions to places such as the nearest petrol station offering the lowest prices or parking facilities at a shopping mall. Waze will then respond with a curated list of relevant options. This AI-powered search feature is expected to be introduced soon for members of Waze’s beta testing community.