Waze tests traffic light indicators on maps
Waze is testing traffic light indicators on its navigation maps in Israel, responding to years of user requests, with strict limits in early stages to prevent map clutter.
The crowdsourced navigation app has long emphasized real-time driving conditions. Users have requested traffic light support for years. Google Maps, owned by the same parent company, introduced traffic light indicators in 2022. Waze’s testing marks an initial step toward matching this capability.
Android Authority received a received from GeekTime indicating that Waze began testing the feature in Israel. The rollout remains in early stages. Developers imposed strict limits to maintain a clean map interface and avoid overwhelming users with icons.
During active navigation, the app displays a maximum of three traffic lights at a time. This approach prioritizes focus on the route ahead. Drivers receive information on relevant intersections without excessive visual elements.
When the map is open but navigation is not active, Waze shows all traffic lights near the user’s current location. This provides a comprehensive view of nearby intersections for planning purposes.
GeekTime describes the implementation as a very early test. No information exists on expansion within Israel or to other countries. Limits on traffic light displays may adjust during further development.
In May, Waze officially confirmed that traffic light support constitutes a planned feature. This announcement preceded the current testing phase.
Google’s ownership of Waze enables potential use of existing traffic light data from Google Maps. Such data covers countries including the United States. Waze could integrate this information rather than mapping traffic lights independently.