Internet advertising giant (Google) 'mulls' map app Waze gobble

Gonna offer anything less than $1bn? No Waze, Jose

Ad giant Google is also considering snapping up mapping software firm Waze, which could spark a bidding war with Facebook over the business.

Sources whispered to Bloomberg that Google was interested in the navigation firm - which is, of course, seeking a price tag of more than $1bn. What kind of tech company are you these days if you don't ask other tech companies to fork out at least $1bn for you?

Google told The Register that it doesn't comment on rumours or speculation.

Earlier this month, other sources claimed that Facebook was also interested in snaffling Waze and was unfazed by the billion-dollar price tag. Since Facebook was outed as an interested party, Google and other tech firms have approached the firm about a possible deal.

All the way back in January, Apple was rumoured to be sniffing around the Israeli start-up, although the fruity firm was only offering a measly $400m.

The familiar parties said that Waze had received "expressions of interest" from a number of parties - but it could also decide to stay independent and look for a new round of venture capital funding instead.

Waze's unique selling point for navigation is getting drivers to contribute to its data by leaving the app open to gather traffic and road data for fellow motorists, or actively sharing reports on accidents or other hazards.

The firm also uses "an active community of online map editors" - otherwise known as regular people who work for free - to make sure their maps are up-to-date.

At the moment, Waze is free to use, making its money from "location-based advertising". The mapping tool has more than 40 million users. ®