Google’s Waze navigation app is getting ready for the public release of iOS 12 by allowing private beta testers to test its CarPlay abilities.
Beta testers using iOS received a notification on Friday that an update to the Waze app would be available on TestFlight in the near future. Identified as “RC v.4.43.4.0” in a message posted to Twitter by Chris Harper, the version seems to be a release candidate, but it is unknown when it will formally launch to all users.
As of iOS 12, Apple will allow third-party navigation apps to work with CarPlay, its iPhone-based apps system used with compatible vehicles’ infotainment systems. CarPlay allows users to control various functions, including navigation, entertainment, and other apps, on their iPhones via their vehicle’s touchscreen in the vehicle’s console.
Apple announced third-party navigation support at their WWDC event back in June. The announcement included information that both Google Maps and Waze would be gaining CarPlay compatibility with the release of iOS 12. There hasn’t been any information leaked as to any beta testing of Google Maps, or when CarPlay capabilities will debut in the venerable navigation app.