The policy states that Waze collects voice files when users record their voice or use voice command features, and that if users choose to share voice recordings, other users may download and use them, after which Waze states it may have no control over those files.
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
This provision establishes that voice and audio data is collected during voice feature use, and that shared voice recordings may be downloaded and used by third parties outside Waze's control.
Interpretive note: Whether voice recordings constitute biometric data triggering heightened legal protections depends on jurisdiction-specific definitions and how Waze processes the recordings, which is not fully specified in the document.
The updated policy now applies to users of any age by removing the prior 16+ requirement, but does not explicitly state whether parental consent is required for minors. The policy defines Personal Information more broadly to include location, route information, and data reasonably linked to you by Waze. The company removed documentation of the 'find friends' feature that previously collected phone numbers from device contacts, suggesting that feature is no longer active or has been redesigned. Privacy controls remain available through in-app settings where you can adjust which Personal Information Waze collects and how it is used.
View change record →Under this clause, voice recordings shared by users within the Waze platform may be downloaded and used by other users, and the policy states that Waze may have no control over those files once downloaded. Voice data collected through voice command features is retained by Waze as part of activity information.
Cross-platform context
See how other platforms handle Voice Recording Collection and Sharing and similar clauses.
Compare across platforms →"If you choose to either record your own voice onto the Service, or to use the voice command features, Waze will collect the voice information related to such use, including voice files. If, after recording your own voice, you chose to share your voice recordings, other Waze users and other people will be able to download and use your voice recordings. Once downloaded, Waze may not have any control over the voice files, so you should only share content that you are comfortable being made public.Excerpt from Waze's Privacy Policy
1) REGULATORY LANDSCAPE: Voice and audio data collection engages GDPR and LGPD provisions governing biometric or sensitive personal data depending on jurisdiction and how the data is processed.
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This provision establishes that voice and audio data is collected during voice feature use, and that shared voice recordings may be downloaded and used by third parties outside Waze's control.
Under this clause, voice recordings shared by users within the Waze platform may be downloaded and used by other users, and the policy states that Waze may have no control over those files once downloaded. Voice data collected through voice command features is retained by Waze as part of activity information.
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