Google has confirmed that it’s acquired Waze, a mobile app that helps drivers navigate while sharing information about heavy traffic and road hazards.
Google plans to enhance Google Maps with traffic updates from Waze and also aims to bring Google’s search to Waze. The Waze product development team will remain in Israel - and the separate Waze brand and community will be maintained.
In a blog post, Waze CEO Noam Bardin said “Google is committed to provide us with the independence and resources we need to succeed. We evaluated many options and believe Google is the best partner for Waze, our map editors, area managers, champs and nearly 50 million Wazers globally.”
Rumours had previously suggested that Facebook and Apple were also interested in acquiring Waze.
[Google blog]