Waymo Explores Options to Exit Uber Robotaxi Deal

Waymo, the autonomous vehicle firm owned by Alphabet Inc., is exploring options to end its robotaxi partnership with Uber Technologies Inc. The company has notified Uber that it plans to operate independently in Austin and Atlanta starting in January 2028. Currently, Uber offers rides in autonomous Waymo vehicles on its platform in these two cities. Waymo’s decision to exit the partnership is a significant setback for Uber, which has been developing partnerships with Waymo and other companies to become the go-to aggregator for both driverless and human-operated rides. The current fleet of Waymo vehicles will remain on Uber’s platform through at least May 2028, as per the existing contract. Uber’s shares fell as much as 4.9% after the report, while Alphabet’s stock was up less than 1%. The rift between the two companies has been fueled by anxiety about their relationship, with Waymo competing with Uber in key rideshare markets such as San Francisco and Los Angeles with its consumer app. Waymo has not announced new cities where its vehicles will be available on the Uber app since launching the Atlanta service last June, instead focusing on its stand-alone app and launching in six more cities outside San Francisco and Los Angeles.