I'm doing a phd in chemistry building commercial loan Google turned heads a few weeks ago when the company announced its acquisition of the Israeli mapping service Waze. Waze has grown rapidly thanks to its innovative user-engagement model, which relies on its users to provide real-time traffic information like backups, accidents and disabled vehicles. And while Google's rivals may voice complaints, as they usually do, the just-completed deal is a boon for consumers and demonstrates the highly competitive nature of the mobile mapping space.