Waymo Ends Exclusive Partnership with Uber in Austin and Atlanta
Uber and Waymo are shifting their partnership model: Waymo will launch its own app in Austin and Atlanta in January 2028, while maintaining availability on the Uber platform until at least May 2028.
Over the past three years, Uber and Alphabet-owned Waymo have collaborated to provide driverless taxi services in two major US cities, a partnership that is now undergoing significant changes. Until now, Waymo's robotaxis were available in Atlanta and Austin exclusively through the Uber app. However, an Uber spokesperson told CNBC on Friday that the company 'received notice from Waymo yesterday that it intends to launch the Waymo app in Austin and Atlanta in January 2028, alongside the collaboration with Uber.'
This shift reflects Waymo's strategy to attract passengers across various US cities without relying on exclusive deals. According to the company's website, its taxis currently operate successfully in nine markets, with additional cities in the process of being launched. Last year, Waymo also reached a non-exclusive deal with Lyft to provide robotaxi rides in Nashville, Tennessee.
Waymo's robotaxis will remain bookable in Atlanta and Austin through the Uber app until at least May 2028, Uber stated, noting that the change will allow it to offer autonomous rides in vehicles not owned by Waymo in these two cities.
'Riders should choose for themselves how they use the technology. It is essential for the future of the industry and our vision to make the Waymo app and the safety of our technology available to riders everywhere,' a Waymo spokesperson said.
According to a Financial Times report, Waymo held internal discussions regarding whether it should disconnect from Uber in light of disputes between the companies, including disagreements over policies promoted in various locations across the US. Uber shares fell by 4% following the news. Uber is investing in autonomous driving technology independently of Waymo and has committed to purchasing vehicles from partners including Waabi, Wayve, Aurora, and Rivian, once their vehicles receive the necessary safety certifications.
