Waze now requires Android 10, drops the management of older Android versions

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If you are counting on an old Android device, whether it is a phone, a tablet or an automotive infotainment unit, you could soon lose access to all the new Waze features. The latest beta version of Waze, version 5.9.90 and higher, now requires Android 10 at least, against the previous requirement of Android 8.
This change means that even if your device can still execute Waze, it will no longer receive updates. This applies to all navigation improvements, bug corrections and new tools that Waze generally deploys every few months.
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Ancient Android devices may not be able to download the latest Waze updates. (Waze)
Why the Android 8 and 9 support of Waze is important
First of all, it is important to note that Google Maps continues to support Android 8 and Android 9, offering a living line if you are stuck on older software.
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However, Waze is a leader in community navigation. Its strength comes from real-time and outsourced reports of incidents, police traps, road risks and even gas prices, characteristics that many drivers appreciate above Google Maps.
Which loses the Waze features on older Android devices
- Drivers using older smartphones or tablets: If you have not updated your device on Android 10, you will lose access to new Waze features.
- Users of infotainment systems in the secondary market market: Many of these budgetary units still perform Android 8 (Oreo) or Android 9 (PIE), which means that they will soon be late.

Devices that have not been updated on at least Android 10 will not be able to access the latest Waze features. (Waze)
What the requirement of Android 10 of Waze means for you
If Waze is your favorite navigation application, here is what to keep in mind:
- You can continue to use Waze on older Android versions, but you will not get new features or updates.
- The reliability of the application can decrease over time as changes in the backend or server protocols evolve.
- Updates of the card and basic reports can always work for a while, but the support is not guaranteed indefinitely.
- Google Maps remains an emergency option because it always supports the old Android systems.
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As a version of the application is aging, it can become less reliable over time. (Waze)
Tips for making Waze work on your Android device
If you count on Waze daily, here are some quick ways to stay ahead of the update cut:
- Check your Android version: Go to Parameters > About the phone > Software information To confirm if you run Android 10 or more.
- Update your device: If your phone or tablet supports it, Install the latest Android update To keep Waze fully functional.
- Consider a budget upgrade: If your equipment is blocked on Android 9 or more, affordable Android 10+ phones and tablets are widely available.
- Update automobile infotainment systems: Many spare head units allow software updates. Check the manufacturer’s site to see if Android 10 is available.
- Keep Google Maps as backup: If the update is not possible, Google Maps still works on Android 8 and 9, making sure that you never find yourself without navigation.
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The transition to Android 10 reflects a common model in the development of applications: development on the versions of the more recent operating system allows advanced features and stronger security. For most Android users, especially those on modern devices, this is a non-problem. But if you use older equipment, especially in your vehicle, you need to plan in advance. To continue to take advantage of the complete Waze experience, examine whether upgrading your device or the transition to supported applications like Google Maps is smarter movement.
Are you going to update your device to stay up to date with Waze, or does this change push you to go to Google Maps? Let us know by writing to Cyberguy.com.
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