Uber Eats start testing driverless food delivery after partnering with Waymo

Uber has signed a deal with Alphabet's Waymo to deploy the latter's fleet of self-driving cars for meal deliveries across Phoenix, Arizona. This strategic partnership signals a significant advancement in the world of autonomous transportation, offering residents in Tempe, Mesa, and Chandler a futuristic solution for food delivery.

How it works

When placing an order through the Uber Eats app in Phoenix, customers within the service area will get a prompt stating, “Autonomous vehicles may deliver your order.”

Placing an order will automatically opt the customer into using the driver-free delivery, but they can opt out at checkout if they prefer to have their items delivered by a courier.

Customers who choose autonomous delivery will receive an in-app notification to take their phone with them to unlock the vehicle and collect their items. Tip cost will be excluded in this case.

By leveraging Waymo's proven expertise in autonomous driving technology, Uber aims to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and safety of its delivery operations while offering customers a glimpse into the future of transportation.

It’s an interesting idea for drivers, but what does it mean for consumers?

The prospect of automation encroaching on traditional driving roles could exacerbate existing anxieties surrounding job security and livelihoods. Especially considering it comes at a time when Uber and Lyft drivers have been vocal about their grievances regarding compensation and working conditions.

The widespread strikes witnessed this past Valentine's Day were evidence of growing discontentment among drivers across the nation.

As Uber embarks on this ambitious venture with Waymo, it remains imperative for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration to address the concerns and aspirations of all parties involved.