Apple is bringing a variety of Waze-like features to Apple Maps with the release of iOS 14.5. The update gives users the ability to report speed cameras, accidents and other road hazards using Siri, CarPlay or via the Apple Maps app on the iPhone.
When using Apple Maps for the first time after upgrading to iOS 14.5, Siri’s navigation voice will inform you of new features.
Apple is offering users several different ways to report these dangers. First, you can use Siri to report hazards simply by saying, “Hey, Siri, report an accident”. You can also report hazards, mobile radar and accidents using the Apple Maps interface on CarPlay.
From the Apple Maps app on the iPhone, you can start navigation and swipe from bottom to top to find the new “Report” option. This is where you can find new crowdsourcing features for reporting hazards.
If enough users report a speed trap, danger or accident, it should appear on the map as an alert for other Apple Maps users, similar to Waze.
TechCrunch explains:
To use the new features, drivers will be able to report problems and incidents on the roads using Siri on their iPhone or via Apple’s CarPlay. For example, while navigating, they will be able to tell Siri things like “there is an accident in the head”, “there is something on the road” or “there is a speed trap here”. They will also be able to correct old accident or danger alert information, saying things like “the danger is gone” or “the incident no longer exists”.
The new Waze-like features are the latest examples of Apple’s work to renew and expand Apple Maps. More than a year ago, Apple officially completed the launch of its rebuilt Apple Maps in the United States, giving users faster and more accurate navigation, improved details, better road coverage and more.
What do you think of these new crowdsourcing reporting features on Apple Maps? Will they stop you from using Google’s Waze? Let us know in the comments!
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