Uber Opens Waitlist for Waymo Rides in Austin Ahead of Launch

Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: UBER) has opened a waitlist for users in Austin, Texas, to sign up for Waymo's autonomous ride-hailing service, set to launch in early 2025. This partnership between Uber and Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOGL), aims to bring fully autonomous, electric Jaguar I-PACE vehicles to the streets of Austin, exclusively available through the Uber app.



The waitlist, accessible through the Uber app, allows users to express their interest in experiencing Waymo's robotaxi service. By joining the list, users will receive updates about the launch and increase their chances of being matched with a Waymo vehicle when the service goes live. The initial service area will cover 37 square miles, including downtown, Hyde Park, and Montopolis, with plans to expand the territory over time.

Uber and Waymo first announced their partnership in 2023, initially running a pilot program in Phoenix. The expanded partnership in Austin and Atlanta is set to launch in early 2025, with Waymo's fleet of autonomous vehicles growing to hundreds across both cities over the next few years. Riders who request an UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric may be matched with a Waymo for qualifying trips, with upfront pricing matching that of human-driven options.

The partnership between Uber and Waymo is a strategic move for both companies, allowing Uber to expand its autonomous ride-hailing services without investing in its own autonomous vehicle technology. Waymo, on the other hand, gains access to Uber's extensive user base and infrastructure. This collaboration is expected to enhance mobility and accessibility for users in Austin and Atlanta while potentially reducing costs and increasing revenue for both companies.

As the launch of Waymo's robotaxi service in Austin approaches, users can sign up for the waitlist through the Uber app to be among the first to experience the service. The partnership between Uber and Waymo is poised to revolutionize the ride-hailing industry, bringing fully autonomous, electric vehicles to the streets of Austin and Atlanta.