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Whenever I’m about to go someplace I’ve never been, I try to get as much info ahead of time as possible. I’ll use Google Earth to try to get a visual description of a building. I’ll look up Yelp reviews to see what is good or bad. I’ll even try to find out what the parking situation is like, just in case I need to plan ahead for a long walk.
This week, Waze updated their social networking map app to include the ability to add and edit current pictures and information about businesses and residences. Now, you can take a picture of a restaurant that recently closed down and post it to Waze to let others know not to waste their time.
With “Places” Waze users can take a picture of a building or house and upload it to the mapping service. Users can also edit and update details about the business to make sure everything is as up-to-date as possible. Even if you don’t know some bit of information, others can fill in the blanks at any time. Unlike Google Maps, Waze is community based, so getting relevant information is easier as long as users contribute.
Just like adding real-time traffic conditions, Wazers earn points for adding content to Places. Submit a picture, business name, and more, to earn points and move up on the social ladder.
The app also now includes automatic parking pins. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, Waze will detect that you’ve stopped moving and add a parking pin to help you find your spot when it is time to return.
Waze is available on the iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch for free. Download it in the App Store today.
