The Waymo-Uber partnership will lose its exclusive arrangement in Austin and Atlanta starting in January 2028. Waymo will let customers book robotaxi rides directly through its own smartphone app, while potentially remaining available through Uber.
Waymo co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana confirmed the decision in a Bloomberg interview published Wednesday. Uber separately confirmed that it intends to continue offering Waymo rides as long as both companies maintain their agreement.
Waymo Uber Partnership Changes Focus on Direct Bookings
Waymo initially partnered with Uber to reach more customers through its established ride-hailing network. However, the arrangement has created uncertainty for riders seeking autonomous vehicles.
Customers booking through Uber cannot guarantee they will receive a Waymo robotaxi instead of a human-driven vehicle. Mawakana described the experience as unpredictable and emphasized the importance of maintaining direct relationships with riders.
The decision follows earlier Financial Times reporting that Waymo was considering leaving its Uber arrangement. The existing agreement was scheduled to expire in May 2028.
Uber Disputes Responsibility for Booking Limitations
Uber told Bloomberg that Waymo had previously opposed adding a dedicated robotaxi booking option to its platform. Such a feature would have allowed customers to request autonomous rides specifically.
Waymo already offers direct bookings through its own app in other cities. Meanwhile, Uber continues working with multiple autonomous vehicle developers to expand its robotaxi services.
The January 2028 change will give Austin and Atlanta customers another way to access Waymo vehicles without requiring Uber. Neither company has announced whether their nonexclusive partnership will continue beyond the existing agreement.
