Waze will soon stop releasing updates for outdated Android devices, affecting users with older operating systems. Discover why this change is happening, when it will take effect, the risks of not upgrading, and the best alternatives available.
Waze to End Updates for Older Android Devices Soon
The widely used navigation app Waze has confirmed that it will stop releasing updates for older Android devices in the coming months. This is a significant change for millions of drivers and commuters who depend on Waze for real-time navigation, traffic alerts, and route optimization.
According to the company, support will end for devices running older versions of Android that no longer meet Waze’s technical and performance requirements. While an exact cutoff version has not been officially announced, industry reports suggest the limit could be Android 6 (Marshmallow) or earlier.For users still running these outdated operating systems, the clock is ticking to prepare before the updates officially stop.
Why Waze Is Ending Support for Older Android Versions
The Push for Better Performance and Features
As mobile technology advances, applications like Waze require faster processing power, enhanced security frameworks, and new APIs to support modern features such as advanced traffic prediction, live hazard reporting, and integration with newer devices and car systems.
Unfortunately, older Android systems lack the technical capacity to run these new features smoothly.
H3: Security and Compatibility Concerns
Continuing to maintain compatibility with older platforms doesn’t just slow innovation—it also increases the risk of:
- Compatibility issues with new map updates and GPS systems
- Security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by cyber attackers
- Reduced stability in navigation performance
By dropping older Android support, Waze can focus on providing a faster, safer, and more feature-rich experience for the majority of its users.
What This Means for Daily Navigation and Waze Users
If you’re using an older Android phone, this update cutoff will have direct consequences on your navigation experience.
1. Loss of New Features and Improvements
Once Waze stops supporting your device’s OS, you will no longer receive:
- New app features
- Bug fixes
- Performance enhancements
The app might still function for a short time, but as newer updates roll out for supported devices, your version will become less reliable and more prone to glitches.
2. Increased Security Risks
Without updates, older versions of Waze won’t receive security patches, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. This is especially concerning because Waze relies on real-time location tracking, which could be exploited if security measures are outdated.
How to Check If Your Device Will Be Affected
If you’re unsure whether your device is at risk:
- Check your Android version – Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Information.
- If your phone runs on Android 6 (Marshmallow) or an earlier version, it’s likely you will lose support soon.
- If you can’t update your phone’s OS to a newer version due to hardware limitations, your only long-term solution is to upgrade your device.
Alternatives and Workarounds
If your device falls into the unsupported category, you still have a few options.
Option 1 – Upgrade to a Newer Android Device
This is the most straightforward solution. Buying a phone that supports Android 12 or later ensures you’ll have:
- Continued Waze support
- Access to all new features
- Better overall app performance
- Stronger security protections
H3: Option 2 – Try Other Navigation Apps
If upgrading is not an immediate option, you could try navigation apps that still support older OS versions, such as:
- Google Maps (though older versions may also face deprecation soon)
- HERE WeGo
- MapFactor Navigator
However, be aware that these apps may also end support for older systems in the near future.
Option 3 – Use the Web Version (Limited Functionality)
If your Waze app stops updating but still functions, you might be able to use Waze in a web browser on your device, though features will be limited compared to the full app.
Why This Change Is Actually a Good Thing for Most Users
While it may feel frustrating for those with older devices, ending support allows Waze to:
- Release advanced features faster without compatibility constraints
- Enhance app stability and speed for modern devices
- Improve security measures across the platform
- Integrate better with newer in-car systems and smart assistants
Ultimately, this helps most users get a smoother, more reliable, and safer navigation experience.
Preparing for the Change
Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re ready before Waze ends updates for older Android devices:
- Check your Android version now.
- Back up your phone data if you plan to switch devices.
- Research budget-friendly upgrade options if you need a new phone.
- Download offline maps as a backup in case your app becomes unreliable.
