GoKawiilPixel owners find workaround to set Waze as default over Google Maps
A ZDNET writer discovered that after Google's August Android update, Pixel phones no longer offer a straightforward way to set a third-party app like Waze as the default mapping tool. The workaround involves disabling Google Maps first through the phone's Apps settings before Waze can take over as default for links and other apps that open map locations.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The change suggests Google may be reinforcing its own apps' defaults on Pixel devices, making it harder for users to switch to competitors like Waze, which Google itself owns but treats separately in this context. This could raise questions about user choice and whether default-app settings are being quietly restricted on Android, though no official explanation from Google was given.
- Pixel's August Android update removed the simple option to set non-Google mapping apps as default
- Users must now manually disable Google Maps first to make Waze the default
- The workaround still requires several settings steps rather than a direct toggle
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See iOttie Easy One Touch 5 Car Mount on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: zdnet.com — Jack Wallen, 2026-10-22
Published there as: “Not impressed with Google Maps? Make Waze your default on Pixel – here’s how”
Read the original report → The summary and analysis above are GoKawiil's own, written from reporting by the source above. Facts and quotes belong to the original publisher.