- Startups - Di-Ann Eisnor of Waze - TWiST #226 | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR
Waze is a free app that provides real-time traffic updates and turn-by-turn navigation, utilizing crowdsourced information from its community of drivers.
Key Insights
- âšī¸ Waze was initially an open-source, crowd-sourced mapping project called FreeMap before evolving into a real-time navigation app.
- đĨ Waze has experienced significant growth in Los Angeles, its primary market, and has gained popularity due to its accurate real-time traffic reports.
- đ The app's gesture-based controls and hands-free features aim to reduce distractions and promote safe driving.
- đ Waze is exploring future partnerships with car manufacturers to incorporate its navigation features directly into vehicles.
Transcript
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Questions & Answers
Q: How does Waze collect real-time traffic information?
Waze collects GPS traces and timestamps from its users' smartphones, which are then used to create real-time traffic reports and provide alternative routes.
Q: How does Waze differentiate itself from other navigation apps?
Unlike traditional navigation apps, Waze incorporates a community aspect, where users can report accidents, hazards, and police presence. This real-time, crowdsourced information sets Waze apart from other navigation apps.
Q: Is Waze available for all smartphones?
Waze is available for both iPhone and Android smartphones. It is also compatible with some Blackberry devices.
Q: Does Waze have a revenue model?
Currently, Waze generates revenue by licensing its traffic data to tech companies and departments of transportation. However, they are exploring location-targeted advertising as a potential revenue stream in the future.
Summary & Key Takeaways
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Waze is a free navigation app for smartphones that offers voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, real-time traffic updates, and crowdsourced data from its community of drivers.
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The app collects GPS traces and timestamps from its users to create real-time traffic reports and provide alternative routes to save time during commute.
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Waze has experienced rapid growth in Los Angeles and other major cities, with over 500,000 drivers using the app and contributing to its traffic reporting.
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