This analysis describes what Waze's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
Continuous background location collection enables the service to maintain navigation functionality and map data accuracy while also supporting the advertising model described in the policy. The authorization extends to periods when the app is not actively in the foreground, which affects the scope and frequency of data collection.
The updated policy now explicitly discloses that Waze periodically collects all phone numbers stored on your device's contact book as part of the 'find friends' feature. According to the revised terms, these phone numbers are collected in a form that is initially anonymous to Waze and are used to help create a list of other Waze users you may know. The policy clarifies that names, addresses, and other contact information are not collected from your phone book, though such information may be saved locally on your device for local searches. Additionally, the updated terms now explicitly authorize connecting your Waze account to social network accounts and sharing profile information from those networks. You can control whether to use the 'find friends' feature and whether to connect social network accounts to your Waze account.
View change record →The updated policy removes explicit language describing how Waze collects phone numbers from device contact books and integrates social network accounts. Previously, the policy stated that Waze would 'periodically collect all of the phone numbers which are stored on your device's phone contacts book' and described how this information was used for the 'find friends' feature. The revised policy no longer includes these specific disclosures. This does not necessarily mean the practices have stopped, but it means the policy provides less transparency about what data Waze collects from your device and how it uses contact information. Users who relied on these detailed descriptions to understand Waze's data practices will find the updated policy less explicit on these points.
View change record →The updated privacy policy now explicitly discloses that Waze periodically collects all phone numbers stored in your device's contact book as part of the 'find friends' feature. According to the policy, this information is collected in an anonymous form to Waze and is used to identify other Waze users you may know. The terms also clarify that social network information can be shared with Waze and other users if you choose to connect your social network account. While the policy states that names, addresses, and other contact book information are not collected, some contact information may be saved locally on your device for local search purposes. You can control whether this feature operates by not using the 'find friends' feature or by not granting the app contact access through your device settings.
View change record →Users operating the Waze application are subject to ongoing collection of precise GPS coordinates both during active navigation and while the app operates in the background. The terms authorize use of this location data for service provision, product improvement, and advertising purposes as detailed in the policy.
How other platforms handle this
Location data. Data about your device's location, which can be either precise or imprecise. For example, we collect location data using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) (e.g., GPS) and data about nearby cell towers and Wi-Fi hotspots. Location can also be inferred from a device's IP address...
We also collect information about your approximate location based on your device and network information, such as SIM card region, IP address, and device system settings. We also collect information, such as tourist attractions, shops, or other points of interest, if you choose to add the location t...
We collect information about your approximate and precise location. If you permit us to do so, we can collect your precise location from your device. We also use your IP address to determine your general location. You can use Snap Map to share your location with your friends and to see the locations...
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"When you use Waze, we collect your precise location data, including GPS coordinates, in real time. This includes collection while the app is running in the background on your device. We use this data to provide navigation services, improve our maps, and for other purposes described in this policy, including advertising.— Excerpt from Waze's Waze Privacy Policy
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Continuous background location collection enables the service to maintain navigation functionality and map data accuracy while also supporting the advertising model described in the policy. The authorization extends to periods when the app is not actively in the foreground, which affects the scope and frequency of data collection.
Users operating the Waze application are subject to ongoing collection of precise GPS coordinates both during active navigation and while the app operates in the background. The terms authorize use of this location data for service provision, product improvement, and advertising purposes as detailed in the policy.
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