techcrunch.com
Nov 5, 2026
Waymo confirms it’s shaking up its Uber relationship in January 2028
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Waymo announced it will terminate its exclusive partnership with Uber in the Austin and Atlanta markets effective January 2028, according to co‑CEO Tekedra Mawakana. The autonomous‑vehicle firm will begin offering rides through its own smartphone app, mirroring its operations in other cities. Uber confirmed it will continue to host Waymo robotaxis on its platform for as long as the parties agree. Waymo cited rider uncertainty and the desire for a direct relationship with passengers as reasons for ending exclusivity. The decision follows earlier reports that the partnership was set to expire in May 2028.
💡 Why It Matters
- · By moving its robotaxis out of Uber’s app, Waymo gains control over the customer experience and can directly address rider feedback, potentially reshaping how autonomous services are marketed and adopted in key U.S.
- · markets.
