Israel-based online mapping company Waze has launched a new carpooling service application, primarily focused on users commuting to and from work.
Google-owned Waze has also launched RideWith, which allows users to book rides via a separate application.
"We are conducting a small, private beta test in Tel Aviv for a carpool concept," Waze spokesman Julie Mossler told WIRED.
"Waze regularly experiments with new ideas in our backyard, and we have nothing specific to announce at this time."
Google purchased the online mapping company for $1 billion back in 2013, a deal largely seen as competition against Uber. The latter company is the world's largest transportation network start-up application.
Uber, which reached nearly $3 billion in total funding this year, has remained under close observation by state officials given strict regulations against price gouging, which the ride sharing company has been frequently accused of in the past.
New York City's Greater New York Taxi Association, for example, is opposed to Uber's expansion in New York City.
Waze is also expected to compete against Lyft, which is ranked behind Uber in having the most customers requesting on-demand rides.
