Waymo’s Expanding Autonomous Ride-Hailing Services: Current Availability, Future Plans, and New Features
Introduction
Since its inception as Google’s self-driving car project in 2009, Waymo has been at the forefront of autonomous vehicle technology. As of February 2026, Waymo’s ride-hailing services are operational in multiple U.S. cities, with plans for further expansion and the introduction of new features enhancing user experience.
Current Service Areas
Fully Operational Cities
Waymo’s autonomous ride-hailing services are fully available in the following cities:
– Phoenix, Arizona: As one of the initial launch cities, Phoenix has been a pivotal testing ground for Waymo’s technology. The service covers extensive areas, including downtown Phoenix and surrounding suburbs.
– San Francisco Bay Area, California: Waymo’s services encompass key regions such as San Francisco, Silicon Valley, and parts of the Peninsula. Recent expansions have included areas like Brisbane, South San Francisco, San Bruno, Millbrae, and Burlingame, bringing the service closer to major hubs like the San Francisco International Airport.
– Los Angeles, California: Since its launch, Waymo has expanded its coverage in Los Angeles to include neighborhoods such as Playa del Rey, Ladera Heights, Echo Park, Silver Lake, and the entirety of Sunset Boulevard. This expansion allows for seamless travel across over 120 square miles of LA County.
Partnerships with Uber
In addition to its standalone services, Waymo has partnered with Uber to offer autonomous rides in:
– Atlanta, Georgia: Users can access Waymo’s autonomous vehicles through the Uber app by selecting options like UberX, Uber Green, Uber Comfort, or Uber Comfort Electric. After opting in via the Ride Preferences section, riders may be matched with a Waymo vehicle, which they can unlock using the Uber app upon arrival.
– Austin, Texas: Similar to Atlanta, Austin residents can hail Waymo’s autonomous vehicles through the Uber platform, providing a seamless integration of autonomous rides into the existing ride-hailing ecosystem.
Early Access Cities
Waymo is gradually introducing its services in several cities through an early access program. As of February 2026, these cities include:
– Miami, Florida: Residents can sign up for early access to Waymo’s services, with new riders being invited on a rolling basis to ensure a smooth experience.
– Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Orlando: These cities are part of Waymo’s early access program, allowing residents to experience autonomous ride-hailing as the company prepares for full-scale operations.
Upcoming Expansions
Waymo has announced plans to expand its services to additional cities, including:
– Denver, Colorado
– Detroit, Michigan
– Las Vegas, Nevada
– Nashville, Tennessee: Scheduled for 2026 in partnership with Lyft.
– San Diego, California
– Washington, D.C.: Set to launch in 2026.
Notably, Waymo is also planning its first international expansion to London, United Kingdom, in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the company’s growth.
Ongoing Testing
Ahead of full deployment, Waymo is conducting autonomous testing in several cities to refine its technology and ensure safety. These cities include:
– Baltimore, Maryland
– Buffalo, New York
– Boston, Massachusetts
– Minneapolis, Minnesota
– New Orleans, Louisiana
– New York, New York
– Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
– Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
– Seattle, Washington
– St. Louis, Missouri
– Tampa, Florida
– Tokyo, Japan
New Features Enhancing User Experience
Waymo is continually updating its services to improve user comfort and convenience. Recent feature additions include:
– Adjustable Legroom: The My car tab in the Waymo app now allows users to adjust legroom preferences, with options for Rear, Distributed, or Front seating configurations.
– Simplified App Interface: The Waymo app has been updated with a streamlined bottom navigation bar, including a Liquid Glass redesign for iPhone users, enhancing the overall user interface.
– Freeway Routes: For users in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, Waymo has introduced freeway routing options, allowing for faster and more efficient travel for those who opt in.
Conclusion
Waymo’s strategic expansions and continuous feature enhancements underscore its commitment to revolutionizing urban mobility through autonomous technology. As the company broadens its reach and refines its services, users can anticipate more accessible, comfortable, and efficient ride-hailing experiences in the near future.
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Waymo’s autonomous ride-hailing now in 10 U.S. cities, with plans for London in 2026! New features like adjustable legroom & freeway routes enhance your ride. #Waymo #AutonomousVehicles #RideHailing
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