New features have been added to Waze in 2026 update and it'll transform how you use the app

Published on Jan 15, 2026 at 2:36 AM (UTC+4)
by Grace Donohoe

Last updated on Jan 14, 2026 at 9:37 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

Waze is one of the most popular navigation apps around right now, and there are some new features that could make car journeys easier than ever before.

From being able to use your voice to help other drivers who use the same route, to even being able to load a route prior to making a journey, the app has released some updates to kick start 2026.

YouTuber at home shared and even provided a demo of the features you should be aware of, showing just how easy they are to access.

The app is already widely loved, competing with the likes of Apple Maps, and of course, Google, but you may just be converted to a full-time Waze user this year.

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Speed camera reporting

The first new element shared by the creator online is the number of different types of speed cameras that you can now report, thanks to new icons in the app.

This not only makes your life easier, but also provides other motorists with extra warning.

Voice integration makes Waze even more useful

Next up are three impressive perks on the Waze app that make it a great choice for all kinds of trip lengths.

The app now offers the chance to use Google Assistant to report hazards, which means that you don’t need to pick up your phone at all.

There is also the opportunity to record your own voice, too – seriously, what doesn’t this app have?

Alongside this, you can also choose from more voice options to help with navigation.

Listening to music has been made simple with Waze and your favorite apps

Forget the days of switching between apps; now there is a new feature with audio player integration.

This clever feature allows you to link your music apps directly to Waze, so everything you need is quite literally all in one place.

Preparing your journey before you leave

The last new feature we have to bring you is the addition of being able to pre-load routes. Now we should note that the YouTuber hasn’t actually been able to verify this.

However, you can preload the route, which could perhaps be useful if you happen to venture into areas with little to no signal at all.

Other tips and tricks also include adding stops like charging and parking, alongside being able to avoid unpaved roads and changing how you receive speed alerts.

You can adjust the settings to Taxi mode too, to stick to main roads.

So, even though Apple and Google Maps also have clever features, the Waze update could tempt us into switching.

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Grace started her career writing about the weird and wonderful for the international press. She's covered everything from lifestyle to sports and hard news and now finds herself pursuing her main interest - cars. She's loved cars from a young age and has a keen interest in luxury travel too.