Waze is partnering with Garmin to integrate the company's optional Live Track feature, giving cyclists a new way to share their location with drivers in real time. When enabled on a Garmin smartwatch or Edge bike computer, cyclists temporarily appear on Waze as they ride past cars on the road.
Drivers will see a notification inside the app warning them that one or more cyclists are ahead, accompanied by a moving icon as they approach. Live Track is completely optional, and it automatically turns off when a ride ends on the Garmin device. Waze also says that names, identities, and routes are never shared through the integration.
While some may argue this offers a solution to a problem that should be addressed from a systemic level, plenty of Garmin users already use Live Track to keep their loved ones notified of their location when they're out for a ride or run. Waze and Garmin primarily envision this integration keeping cyclists safe during century rides away from the city and any bike lanes. Either way, another tool to keep cyclists safe is always appreciated.
Source: Engadget · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing