Err, so I couldn't find a readable and authoritive description but apparently these Waze guys seem have two services:<p>(1) Aggregation and geocoding of traffic metrics<p>(2) Aggregation and geocoding of pump price metrics<p>While this data is already available in some parts of the world (largely from traffic sensors deployed by governments for road network monitoring, which are extremely widely deployed internationally!), live geocoded datasets outside of these areas (typically city centers) are not really out there yet. To get there, sourcing additional data from individuals is a logical step... if you can rely on the sources.<p>IMHO the biggest issue with this whole area is that it is linked to the notion of driving culture which is in my worldview essentially past its apex and on the way out. I mean, I could see Tesla buying something similar to back electric vehicle networks, but not Google. With so many cities already covered by existing and reliable, government-issued, road sensor based live datasets, I am a little puzzled as to why anyone would care about this area.<p>Congrats to the newly wealthy as a result of this deal though; please consider contributing to more forward looking, socially engaged projects in future!