Waze ends updates on older Android devices as Android 10 becomes minimum

Waze is ending updates for older Android devices after updating its latest beta, which sets Android 10 as the minimum required version. Version 5.9.90 and newer will not install on devices running Android 8 or Android 9, and those devices will still run the app but will no longer receive new features, bug fixes, or performance improvements. For drivers who rely on Waze's real-time crowdsourced data, that means fewer updates to incident reports, road hazards, police traps, and even price information over time.

Waze remains a community-driven navigation option, but the shift to Android 10 is likely to disproportionately affect older smartphones and aftermarket car infotainment systems. Many older head units and tablets still ship with Android 8 or 9, and those devices will soon fall behind as the app updates require newer software. Google Maps, by contrast, continues to support Android 8 and 9, offering a lifeline for users who cannot upgrade their hardware.

The change underscores a common pattern in app development: newer operating systems enable more advanced features and stronger security. Waze says the requirement for Android 10 helps support improved maps, faster updates, and enhanced privacy protections, while still preserving core navigation and reporting capabilities for devices that can run the app. The company notes that, even if the app runs on older OS versions, users will not receive backend updates or new tools as backend protocols evolve. Users should not expect indefinite support on outdated hardware.

What this means for everyday users is straightforward. If Waze is your go-to navigation tool, you can continue using it on Android 8 or 9, but you should plan for a transition if you rely on the latest features. You may want to upgrade to a device that runs Android 10 or newer, or consider using Google Maps as a primary navigation option. For those who use Waze in vehicles with aftermarket head units, check with the unit’s manufacturer about available software updates that may bring Android 10 compatibility, or consider upgrading the head unit itself. Regardless of choice, having a reliable backup plan is prudent given the likelihood that older devices will gradually lose compatibility with future app updates.

For users who cannot upgrade hardware quickly, Google Maps remains usable on Android 8/9 and can serve as a temporary fallback, though it lacks some of Waze’s community-driven features. Users should monitor update notes from Waze and their device manufacturers to understand when older devices may no longer be supported and plan accordingly. Tech outlets and third-party guides have highlighted that the broader trend toward minimum OS requirements is driven by security and performance goals, and Waze’s shift mirrors what many apps are doing as devices age.