Traffic incidents reports with a large number of people have been a feature of Waze and Google Maps for years, and now it looks like the functionality will eventually move to Apple Maps. As spotted by Roadshow, the iOS 14.5 beta Apple Maps is updated so you can report if you see incidents on the road. In the current version, the feature provides limited on-screen controls. As you can see in the picture MacRumors from the beta, you may notice a roadblock as an accident, danger, or speed check.
In contrast, in Waze and Google Maps you have the options, as well as options dedicated to track closures, construction and more. However, what can help Apple convince iOS users to drop Google’s apps once and for all is that you can access those features without touching your iPhone. You can talk to Siri to report both when you see a new incident and one that has already been cleared so you can keep your hands on the steering wheel throughout the process. At a time when governments worldwide are taking a strict stance on derivative governance, this is a key advantage for Apple Maps. Of course, the feature is also compatible with Apple CarPlay.
In addition to reporting major incidents for Maps, iOS 14.5 is becoming a major release. It includes a feature that lets you unlock your iPhone via Face ID, even while wearing a mask, as long as you have an Apple Watch on hand. It also includes support for Xbox Series X / S and PlayStation 5 controllers and dual-SIM 5G. It will also allow you to set up a third-party service that Siri will work with by default if you ask the digital assistant to play music.