Sonic the Hedgehog is taking the wheel in Waze starting October 15, 2025, bringing high-speed energy to your daily commute. SEGA has teamed up with the popular navigation app to let drivers worldwide turn Sonic into their GPS guide, complete with quippy directions, themed icons, and a sleek in-app vehicle inspired by the latest Sonic game.
Here’s what’s new and how to try it:
– Availability: Global rollout on iOS and Android with the latest Waze update. No in-app purchase required.
– Where to find it: Open Waze, tap the hamburger menu on the left, go to Sidekick settings, and select Sonic.
– Voices and languages: Sonic is voiced in English by longtime series actor Roger Craig Smith, with French localization available.
– What you’ll hear: Confident, fast-paced guidance filled with Sonic’s trademark attitude, including nods to loops, spike traps, and smooth cornering.
– Cosmetic add-ons: Switch your in-app vehicle to the Speedster Lightning car from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and set your mood to Energetic to display a Sonic-inspired avatar on the community map.
Sonic joins a roster of 50 celebrity and crossover voices on Waze, adding a playful twist to standard navigation prompts while keeping drivers focused on the road. The collaboration also enhances Waze’s social mapping with Sonic-themed icons for a personal, shareable touch.
The timing lines up with SEGA’s broader Racing Around the World campaign that’s revving up to celebrate Sonic’s 35th anniversary in 2026. This year-long initiative kicked off in June 2025 with a multi-year linkup with McLaren Racing, and it’s already hit cruising speed with other activations, including a Sonic-redesigned AirAsia jet interior. The Waze integration follows the September 25 launch of Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and arrives ahead of the battle royale spin-off Sonic Rumble, slated for November 2025.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just want a livelier commute, Waze’s Sonic experience offers a free, easy upgrade. Update the app, tap the Sonic banner in the left-side menu, and let the blue blur guide your next drive.
