Drivers using Waze can now see real-time alerts indicating when a cyclist is nearby, following a global rollout launched on November 10, 2026, for Android and iOS users.
The navigation platform receives location data directly from Garmin hardware without requiring manual accident reports from motorists. To appear on the map, cyclists must use a compatible Garmin Edge bike computer or a supported smartwatch equipped with LiveTrack support.
Riders must enable location sharing with Waze through Garmin Connect and start an active outdoor cycling session. Once these conditions are met, the system displays a moving icon on the Waze map and delivers proximity notifications to approaching motorists.
🚨Waze can now alert drivers about nearby cyclists The company has teamed up with Garmin to make roads safer. Here's how it works: ➡️ Drivers get real-time alerts when Garmin cyclists are nearby. ➡️ Cyclists can enable Garmin LiveTrack to appear on Waze maps. ➡️ Names,… pic.twitter.com/YRqJ66anmJ
— Post by @AndroidAuth on X
Prior to the official announcement, early code hints regarding a direct partnership were discovered within the Garmin Connect application for Android. The feature establishes a digital bridge connecting rider wearables directly to vehicle navigation screens.
Both companies built the integration to protect user anonymity by making the feature entirely optional. Cyclists must explicitly authorize location sharing, and the tracking terminates the moment they end their ride on their Garmin equipment.
Motorists receive only a temporary proximity warning rather than access to detailed tracking pages or personal identities. Drivers do not need Garmin equipment or separate subscriptions to view the alerts inside the navigation application.
Because participation depends entirely on individual settings, riders who do not own supported hardware or choose not to opt in will not trigger warnings through this integration.
Waze is introducing real-time cyclist alerts powered by Garmin LiveTrack. Drivers on Android or iOS will now get temporary, anonymous warnings when a cyclist is ahead—no identifying data or route info shared. Riders must opt in from their Garmin device to enable it, and alerts… pic.twitter.com/rV80CR6cNA
— Post by @dailytechonx on X
The partnership addresses visibility challenges on rural roads, winding descents, and narrow stretches of pavement where motorists often encounter riders unexpectedly around blind curves. While Garmin Varia rearview radar systems traditionally warn cyclists about approaching vehicles, this integration reverses the dynamic by alerting drivers to cyclists ahead on the road.
The new safety mechanism gives motorists an extra chance to slow down and react before physically reaching someone on a bicycle. However, the companies have not published specific figures detailing how effectively the integration reduces collisions, leaving the exact crash-reduction impact to be established over time.
