Waze is coming to Android Auto

Considering that Google owns Waze, it might seem a little odd that the popular crowdsourced mapping service wasn't already on Android Auto. But soon, it will be: Google announced at I/O today that Waze will be coming to the company's in-car infotainment platform.

Google says that Waze has been its single most-requested feature since the commercial launch of Android Auto last year, which is now shipping from 18 automotive and aftermarket head unit brands. Though Google offers some of Waze's crowdsourced data through Google Maps — accident reports, for instance — Waze itself is considerably richer, offering features like speed trap warnings and speed limit indicators. In some cities, Waze has gained particular popularity with taxi and ride-share drivers (coincidentally, Toyota's Camry, Avalon, and Highlander are popular ride-share vehicles, but Toyota is still holding out on supporting products like Android Auto and CarPlay).

The launch of Waze for Android Auto will mark the first time that a non-Google Maps navigation app has come out for the platform, which will automatically become available through the UI if you have the Waze app installed on your phone. The updated software is expected to launch in the next few months.