We’ve all been there. You arrive at your destination, and Waze is still chatting away like you’re lost in the middle of nowhere. Whether you’re saving battery, limiting distractions, or just want peace and quiet, knowing how to properly close Waze on your phone is essential. Don’t worry—it’s way easier than you think!
TL;DR – Quick Summary
You can close Waze by either exiting navigation or force-closing the app. On iPhones, swipe up to remove it from recent apps. On Android, you can do the same by accessing the recent apps menu. Want to stop Waze from running in the background? You’ve got options!
Why Waze Stays Active
Waze loves helping you. That’s why it keeps running. Even after you arrive, it may collect traffic info or stay ready for your next trip.
But sometimes, you just want it off. Let’s explore how to really shut it down.
Step-by-Step: How to Close Waze on iPhone
If you’re rocking an iPhone, follow these quick steps:
- Step 1: Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and hold to open the app switcher.
- Step 2: Find the Waze app in the stack of open apps.
- Step 3: Swipe the Waze card up to close it.
And just like that, Waze is gone. It’s not running. It’s taking a well-deserved nap.
Optional: Stop Waze From Running in the Background on iPhone
If you want to go the extra mile:
- Go to Settings.
- Scroll to Waze and tap it.
- Turn off Background App Refresh.
Waze won’t sneak around in the background anymore. Nice!
How to Close Waze on Android
Android fans, don’t feel left out. You’ve got similar tools!
- Step 1: Tap the Recent Apps or Overview button (usually a square or three lines).
- Step 2: Find Waze in your list of open apps.
- Step 3: Swipe it off the screen (up or sideways depending on your phone).
Your Waze session is now officially done.
Optional: Prevent Background Running on Android
- Open your Settings.
- Go to Apps > Waze.
- Select Battery and tap Restrict Background Activity (this may vary by phone).
Waze won’t keep doing secret missions in the background anymore!
Still Hearing Waze? It Might Be Android Auto or Bluetooth
If Waze is still talking, it could be connected to your car. Try:
- Unplugging your phone from Android Auto.
- Turning off Bluetooth.
- Disabling Waze audio in the app settings.
Just one more way Waze tries to be helpful… but it doesn’t always know when to zip it!
A Fun Trick: Saying “Stop Navigation”
Feeling fancy or hands-free?
You can talk to your digital assistant. Like this:
- Say “Hey Siri, stop navigation” (iPhone).
- Say “Hey Google, stop navigation” (Android).
This stops turn-by-turn directions without needing to tap anything!
Bonus Tip: Fully Logging Out from Waze
Want to go full stealth? You can also log out:
- Open Waze.
- Tap the magnifying glass in the corner.
- Tap your name or email at the top.
- Scroll down and hit Log out.
Now not only is Waze closed… it doesn’t even know who you are.
When Should You Close Waze?
Closing Waze can be helpful when:
- You’re done driving and want to save battery.
- You’re switching to another GPS app.
- You don’t want it listening or collecting traffic data.
But hey, if you’re using it daily, sometimes it’s okay to leave it open. It’s pretty lightweight when idle.
Quick Recap
Let’s bring it all together:
| Action | iPhone | Android |
|---|---|---|
| Close app (force stop) | Swipe up from app switcher | Swipe away from Recent Apps |
| Stop background activity | Disable Background App Refresh | Restrict from Battery Settings |
| Voice command to stop | “Hey Siri, stop navigation” | “Hey Google, stop navigation” |
Final Thoughts
Waze is a great co-pilot, but sometimes you just want that silence back. Whether you’re using an iPhone, an Android, or just want to stop Waze from being clingy after your ride—now you know exactly what to do.
So next time Waze just won’t quit talking, don’t stress. You’ve got tricks up your sleeve. Happy driving—and happy *stopping*!
