Waze mixes dating and ride-sharing concepts in new Waze Carpool service

Waze, the Alphabet-owned mapping app, has expanded its Carpool service to all 50 U.S. states, after running a limited test since earlier this year. Waze Carpool lets drivers fill the empty seats in their cars with passengers, all chosen through dedicated apps.

It’s an unusual mix of dating and ride-sharing services, as the app will match drivers and riders based on route and preferences, while riders are charged $0.54 per mile — the standard business expense for travel.

However, unlike becoming an Uber or Lyft driver, Waze Carpoolers are limited to taking two rides each day, so the system cannot be abused. Waze does not take a cut of the charges yet, and is offering a promotion during the app’s launch, where drivers and riders can earn money for referrals.

Waze says it’s partnering with large companies including Amazon, and will work with cities to implement the system. The app is available for iOS only at the moment, and can be downloaded from the App Store now.

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