Tag: Waze

  • Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Key Takeaways

    1. SEGA and Waze are introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature for navigation starting October 15, 2025.
    2. Users can activate Sonic’s voice as their GPS guide through Waze’s sidekick settings, replacing standard navigation prompts.
    3. The feature includes customizable Sonic-themed icons and the ability to change in-app vehicles to the “Speedster Lightning.”
    4. This update is free for both iOS and Android users and supports Waze’s community-focused model without in-app purchases.
    5. The collaboration is part of SEGA’s “Racing Around the World” campaign to celebrate Sonic’s 35th anniversary in 2026.

    High-speed gaming has now merged with daily travel, as SEGA and the navigation app Waze, owned by Google, is introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature. Starting from October 15, 2025, drivers all over the world can enjoy having the speedy blue character as their personal GPS guide.

    The two companies shared in a press release, “Prepare to feel invincible because Sonic the Hedgehog is going to take you on the ride of a lifetime with Waze.”

    Sonic Joins Waze

    Users of Waze can activate this new feature through the app’s sidekick settings, which are found in the hamburger menu on the left side. Sonic joins a list of 50 celebrity voices, including other gaming icons like Master Chief from Halo and Thrall from World of Warcraft, who replace the usual navigation prompts with Sonic’s unique and confident remarks.

    The voice of Sonic in Waze is provided by long-time voice actor Roger Craig Smith in English, with a French version also accessible. Sonic gives directions that are full of his characteristic style. For example, he might say, “Alright, let’s roll, keep your eyes on the road, never know when a loop-de-loop or spike trap will be in the way” for general guidance and “Turn right, excellent handling, no notes from me whatsoever” when making turns.

    Customizable Features

    In addition to voice navigation, this partnership also improves the Waze experience with Sonic-themed icons that can be customized, which adds a personal touch to the app’s social mapping features.

    Drivers can replace their in-app vehicle with the “Speedster Lightning” car, taken straight from Sega’s new game, Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which was released on September 25, 2025. By choosing the “Energetic” mood option, users can change their avatar—visible to other Waze users on the community map—to show a face inspired by Sonic.

    This free update is accessible worldwide for both iOS and Android users who download the latest version of Waze. It is easily found through a noticeable Sonic banner in the app’s left-side menu and does not need any extra in-app purchases, reinforcing Waze’s community-focused model.

    Celebrating Sonic’s Legacy

    This collaboration comes as a highlight of Sega’s “Racing Around the World” campaign, a year-long global initiative by Sonic Team to mark the franchise’s 35th anniversary in 2026. The campaign began in June 2025 and includes a long-term partnership between Sonic and McLaren Racing.

    The initiative has also led to a Sonic-themed redesign of an AirAsia jet’s interior, featuring elements from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and the soon-to-be-released battle royale game Sonic Rumble, which is set for November 2025.

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  • Google Integrates Gemini AI into Maps, Earth, and Waze

    Google Integrates Gemini AI into Maps, Earth, and Waze

    Google is making big changes to its mapping services by introducing significant generative AI updates. The company is integrating Gemini AI into Google Maps, Earth, and Waze, aiming to transform how users interact with geospatial information and solve location-based challenges.

    Advanced Tools for Developers

    The Maps Platform, utilized by over 10 million websites and apps, has introduced a new feature called "grounding with Google Maps." This allows developers to access real-time location data for creating AI-enhanced experiences. By leveraging Maps’ extensive database of 250 million locations, large language models can provide more precise information.

    Rivian’s Exciting Integration

    Rivian is also getting involved with this cutting-edge technology. Starting next month, they will incorporate Gemini-powered Places API features into their vehicle infotainment systems. This means while you’re on the road, you’ll receive AI-generated summaries of nearby attractions like restaurants, stores, and grocery outlets, improving your driving experience.

    A New Era for Urban Planning

    In addition, Google Earth is collaborating with Google Research and X to integrate Gemini. This partnership will bring advanced analytical tools for urban development. The system can address complex spatial inquiries and create custom visuals, reducing analysis time from several days to mere minutes. For transportation planners, this tool will help determine optimal locations for new electric vehicle charging stations based on actual demand.

    For U.S. Google Maps users on Android and iOS, Gemini AI is enhancing searches with more relevant and contextual results. According to Chris Phillips, VP and General Manager of Geo at Google, it cross-references information from Maps’ database and user reviews to boost accuracy.

    New Features and Expansions

    They’ve also rolled out some cool new features, like improved route exploration with landmark suggestions, information about parking availability at your destination, and enhanced walking navigation details. Moreover, the immersive view has expanded to over 150 cities globally, with better lane information expected next month.

    Waze Joins the AI Revolution

    Waze is also getting in on the action. They are incorporating AI-driven natural language processing for reporting road incidents, allowing users to simply speak about road conditions instead of selecting icons. Later this year, the app will begin providing alerts for school zones for both iOS and Android users.

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