Google has disabled live traffic for Israel and Gaza, both on Maps and Waze, a spokesperson confirmed to Bloomberg. “As we have done in previous conflict situations and in response to the evolving situation in the region, we have temporarily disabled the ability to display live traffic conditions and traffic information out of respect for the safety of local communities,” the spokesperson said. According to Israeli blog GeekTime, in addition to Google, Apple has also disabled the same feature in its Maps app.
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According to Google, users can still use Maps and Waze to get directions and estimated time of arrival information that takes into account current traffic conditions. They just won't be able to see real-time traffic data in the apps like they could in the past. It's unclear whether Apple will also retain some of Maps' navigation features.
The move by the two companies comes just before the Israeli military is expected to invade Gaza, where it is reported to be planning to send tens of thousands of troops to take over the city. One of Bloomberg said Google disabled live traffic to comply with a request from the Israeli military, likely because the feature could reveal the movements of its troops and alert Hamas, which the US and EU recognize as a terrorist organization. The Hill reports that Apple also removed live traffic maps in the region to comply with the Israeli military’s request.
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Before this rollout, one of the most recent examples of Google disabling its live traffic feature “in conflict situations” occurred in 2022. The company disabled Maps’ real-time traffic data in Ukraine back then, following Russia’s invasion of the country. It explained at the time that it implemented the change to protect the safety of locals and that it reached this decision after consulting with Ukrainian authorities.
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How will the daily lives of people in Israel and Gaza be affected without live traffic maps?
The disabling of live traffic maps by Apple and Google will have a significant impact on the daily lives of people in Israel and Gaza. Live traffic maps provided valuable information on vehicle movement and road conditions, helping drivers choose the most efficient routes and avoid traffic. Without this information, drivers will face difficulties in finding the best route and delays and accidents on the road may increase.
In addition, live traffic maps provided information on accidents and roadworks, as well as conditions and events affecting traffic. This information was particularly useful for drivers, as it allowed them to plan their routes according to road conditions. Without this information, drivers would be less aware of conditions and events that may affect traffic.
Finally, disabling live traffic maps could have an impact on the safety of residents. Live traffic maps provided information about road conditions, such as accidents and roadworks, and helped drivers adjust their driving accordingly. Without this information, citizens may not be aware of dangerous situations on the road and the risk of accidents and injuries may increase.
Source: engadget
