In parallel to the launch of this new 'road goodie' version, we invite our users to participate in a 'High Points Challenge' November 25-30 in the US and November 25-December 9 for our international friends.
Q: Ah yes, 'road goodies'...wait, what's a 'road goodie'?
A: 'Road goodies' are small little icons on the map that you can munch to rack-up on points while improving the waze map. 'Road goodies' are placed in areas where our system has identified map problems and as you drive around munching them, your GPS data actually serves to automatically solve these issues while providing you with extra bonus points. Pretty cool, huh?
Q: What do 'road goodies' look like?
A: Here's the breakdown: Present looks like a little gift box and it's the most rare of the new 'goodies', worth 500 extra points. Hammer is a bit more common on the road and it's worth 250 bonus points. Last but not least is Cherries, arguably the cutest 'goodie'. It's pretty common and worth 100 extra points.
Q: How do Road Goodies actually improve the map?
A: For instance, if there's an area where we detect a disconnect in two streets on the map, we'll place a goodie over there in what we believe is the point of intersection. Then, when someone heads over to munch the 'goodie', it will solve the disconnect, telling the waze system that these two streets do indeed intersect.
Q: Alright, cute idea, but what's in it for me?
A: By improving the map with 'road goodie' munching, you're helping to contribute to the driving community in your area and improving the maps for even better free turn-by-turn navigation. Not to mention, you get a whole lot of extra bonus points! And stay tuned - in our next version we'll have changing 'road goodies' on a seasonal basis, plus treasure chests with... surprises inside 'em!