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Google puts Sonic as your navigation guide in Waze maps

You can now enjoy daily commute with the Blue Blur!

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Sonic Racing: Crossworlds

What’s happened? Waze just teamed up with SEGA to bring Sonic the Hedgehog to your dashboard. Starting this week, users can swap their usual navigation voice for the Blue Blur himself, complete with energetic lines like “Let’s roll!” and “Watch out for loop-de-loops!

  • Google says that the sidekick is available globally in English and French.
  • You can pick Sonic as your navigation voice and even set your Waze mood to ‘Energetic.’
  • A custom vehicle skin, ‘Speedster Lightning,’ from SEGA’s Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds also joins the mix.
  • The feature is live now in the latest Waze app; just tap the Sonic banner to activate it.

🚙 → 🏁 Are you ready to be unstoppable!?!

Hop in the Speedster Lightning and start your engine because SONIC IS ON WAZE!!!

Tap to drive w Sonic: https://t.co/pjShR36BHv

& check out Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds- available now! pic.twitter.com/lT39nYtXmS

— waze (@waze) October 15, 2025

This is is important because: The new update is a smart crossover between gaming nostalgia and everyday tech.

  • It’s part of Waze’s ongoing strategy to gamify driving with themed voices and in-app collectibles.
  • Sonic joins a lineup that includes Batman, Halo, and even Spotify tie-ins.
  • Through this addition, fans get a dopamine hit of nostalgia while Waze earns engagement time.
  • The tie-in subtly promotes SEGA’s latest game, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.
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Why should I care? Let’s be real, GPS directions can get boring. With this collaboration, Sonic can hype up your daily commute.

  • It’s a small way to make routine drives more fun, just like the recent Google Maps upgrade with Gemini.
  • Sonic’s fast-talking attitude fits perfectly with Waze’s playful brand personality.
  • It’s a nostalgia trip for longtime fans and a fun introduction for younger users.
  • And yes, he still encourages you to drive at the speed limit.

So next time you’re stuck in traffic, let Sonic take the wheel (well, metaphorically). It might not get you there faster, but it’ll definitely make the ride feel like a power-up. If you are a new user, here’s a guide to navigate Waze app.

Manisha Priyadarshini
Manisha Priyadarshini is a tech and entertainment writer with over nine years of editorial experience.
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