Google and Apple have taken the step of temporarily disabling live traffic updates on their Maps apps in Israel and Gaza. The decision comes amid preparations for a potential Israeli ground attack on Gaza. Live traffic updates are currently unavailable on Google Maps and Wiz in the specified regions.
A Google spokesperson, confirming the move, stated that live traffic updates have been temporarily disabled for the safety of local communities in the context of the evolving situation in the region. The decision was made after consulting various sources, including regional and local authorities. The spokesperson emphasized that this is a measure taken in response to the changing situation.
Notably, this is not the first instance of Google Maps disabling live traffic data in a particular region. In 2022, a similar action was taken, disabling this feature in Ukraine. The decision is reported to be at the request of the Israeli army.
Simultaneously, it has been confirmed that Apple’s live traffic updates have also been temporarily disabled in the specified region, marking a coordinated response from both tech giants to the situation in Israel and Gaza.
