Today marked the day that Waze broke through the 19 million user landmark and to celebrate they released version 3.2 of their app which they’ve been teasing for a number of weeks now on both Facebook and Twitter. Notably this time around the Android upgrade was released simultaneously with the iOS version. Seems the guys at Waze HQ are beginning to realise that Android is capable of becoming their key userbase, especially when you consider the new competition from iOS Maps.
The new features are listed below but key for this release is the introduction of virtually real-time fuel pricing coupled with discount vouchers for participating filling stations. The feature is currently limited to those in the US but other countries should benefit in the near future. Despite a recent drops in oil prices, fuel remains expensive across the world and this feature should prove to be a very interesting one for motorists.
This release also sees the addition of POI categories too with businesses now grouped for easier searching.
Users outside the US will be pleased to hear that TTS (Text-to-speech) is finally being released to more countries too with 9 new languages on board.
A notable omission in version 3.0 was the full text navigation list. Waze later admitted they didn’t realise the feature was even being used. Well 3.2 see its return. Tap on the navbar and get the full breakdown of the route your current journey will take you!
The one disappointment with the Android release is that the option to add waypoints did not quite make the release version. The ability to head to your final destination via a stopover is now possible on Waze for iOS. This should be added for the next Android version.
See the official release announcement here
Don’t forget too that Waze are teaming up with Land of Droid to offer the chance to win the latest must have handset too. See here
Are you an avid Waze user? Any thoughts on this latest version? Be sure to hammer the comments box below!