Waze, the popular social GPS application for smartphones is preparing to install its social based software on various vehicles before the end of 2012.
The first vehicles to install the software will be given access to turn-by-turn directions, traffic incident reports and other information submitted by users.
According to Chief Executive Officer Noam Bardin:
“The same innovation that’s happening in the smartphone is going to tip into the car.”
Waze already has 19 million users who can earn points, unlock new avatar characters and more, simply by inputting new data into the social driver system. Waze also recently added a tracking system for gas prices. The company hopes to earn money by placing location-based ads on a users system.
Waze will be fighting some hard competition including Apple who recently announced iPhone integration for various models by Audi, BMW, Chrysler, General Motors, Honda, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and Toyota. iPhone Siri technology will be activated on those vehicles with the touch of a button on a steering wheels control unit.
Images showing Apple’s new mapping software appears to be powered by Waze technology although neither company is commenting on those images at this time.
When asked if the company is worried about increased competition from Apple Bardin is quick to point out that the Google Android mapping platform added similar features to its own system and failed to knock Wave out of the mobile mapping business or even cause a dent in the platforms user base.
