Waymo to end exclusivity with Uber in Austin and Atlanta in January 2028

Waymo announced it will end its exclusivity agreement with Uber in the Austin and Atlanta markets starting January 2028, according to co-CEO Tekedra Mawakana speaking to Bloomberg News, as reported by TechCrunch.

The robotaxi company plans to offer rides directly through its own smartphone app in these cities, similar to its approach in other locations. Uber confirmed it will continue to host Waymo robotaxis on its app as long as both companies agree.

Mawakana explained that Waymo initially partnered with Uber to leverage its scale, but rider experience has been inconsistent, with uncertainty over whether a ride is a robotaxi or a human-driven car. Waymo has received rider feedback emphasizing the importance of a direct relationship.

Uber, which works with multiple autonomous vehicle partners, stated to Bloomberg that it was Waymo's idea not to add a direct robotaxi booking option within Uber's app. The change will create direct competition between the two companies in these markets.

The exclusivity agreement was originally set to expire in May 2028, but Waymo is moving to end it earlier in January 2028, according to reports from the Financial Times and confirmed by TechCrunch.

This development reflects a shift in Waymo's strategy to engage directly with riders and highlights evolving dynamics in the autonomous vehicle ride-hailing sector.