Waymo set to end Uber partnership in US markets by 2028

Waymo is reportedly seeking to terminate its agreement with Uber, marking a significant shift in the autonomous vehicle landscape. The Alphabet-owned robotaxi service has informed the ride-hailing giant of its intention to launch a dedicated app for its services in Austin and Atlanta from January 2028. This move effectively ends the current arrangement that allows Waymo vehicles to operate on Uber’s network in these markets.

The existing contract between the two companies is scheduled to expire in May 2028, Uber confirmed to TechCrunch. While Waymo has notified Uber of its plan to operate independently via its own application, the company has not immediately responded to requests for comment regarding the broader strategic intent behind the separation. The Financial Times initially reported that Waymo was looking for a way out of the deal.

This potential breakup follows a precedent set earlier this year, when the two firms separated their operations in Phoenix. The decision to part ways in the US comes amid months of escalating tensions between the technology and ride-hailing companies.

Friction has been evident in public exchanges between company leadership. Earlier this year, Uber chief technology officer Praveen Neppalli posted a video describing what he characterised as unsafe and “scary” behaviour by a Waymo robotaxi. In May, Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi criticised robotaxi conduct in school zones and emergency situations during an earnings call, although he did not explicitly name the company.

Regulatory disputes have also contributed to the deteriorating relationship. Waymo has engaged in fresh policy fights with Uber regarding robotaxi regulations, further complicating their operational ties. The transition to a direct-to-consumer model in Austin and Atlanta will see Waymo manage its own customer interface, ending its reliance on Uber’s platform in those specific jurisdictions.