Starting today, March 4, 2025, people in Austin can book rides in Waymo’s self-driving cars using the Uber app. This marks a new chapter for both companies, as they collaborate for the first time after years of legal disputes over self-driving technology.
The two companies had announced in September 2024 that they would bring this service to Austin and Atlanta. To support the expansion, Waymo raised $5.6 billion in October.
How It Works
When you request a ride on the Uber app through UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric, there’s a chance you might get picked up by a self-driving Waymo car instead of a regular Uber driver. However, since the number of these vehicles is still limited, not everyone will get one right away.
The self-driving cars will operate within a 37-square-mile area in Austin, covering Downtown, Hyde Park, and Montopolis. For now, they will only navigate city streets and won’t drive on highways.
Who Handles What?
To keep the service running smoothly, different companies will handle different responsibilities. Uber’s partner, Avmo, will take care of cleaning and maintaining the self-driving cars. Meanwhile, Waymo will oversee testing and provide assistance to riders who have questions about their experience.
A Surprising Partnership
This collaboration comes as a surprise because Uber and Waymo were once rivals in the self-driving industry. They even fought legal battles over technology rights. But now, they’ve put their differences aside to work together on making transportation safer and more convenient.
What’s Next?
Austin is the first city to experience this new partnership, but it won’t be the last. The next city to get Waymo self-driving rides through Uber will be Atlanta. This is just the beginning of an exciting new journey for both companies as they push forward with self-driving technology.
In cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, Waymo offers a separate ride service called Waymo One. However, in Austin, riders won’t need a special app. If you request an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric, you might get a Waymo instead of a regular Uber car. This system is similar to how it works in Phoenix.
Getting a Waymo isn’t guaranteed, but you can increase your chances by adjusting your “Ride Preferences” in the Uber app. The price stays the same whether you get a self-driving car or a regular one. If you do ride in a Waymo, you won’t need to tip. You’ll also use the Uber app to unlock the car, open the trunk, and start your ride.
