Waymo Launches Teen Accounts in Phoenix, Hits 100 Million Fully Autonomous Miles
- Waymo now allows teens aged 14–17 in Metro Phoenix to take solo rides using linked family accounts.
- The company has also surpassed 100 million fully autonomous miles driven on public roads.
Waymo has introduced teen accounts for riders aged 14 to 17, allowing them to hail fully autonomous rides independently. The accounts must be linked to a parent or guardian, who receives ride updates and receipts, and has access to live trip status. The new feature is being rolled out in the Metro Phoenix area.
The feature includes support from specially-trained Rider Support agents and aims to offer peace of mind for families. According to testimonials from early access users, the accounts provide greater independence for teens and flexibility for parents, especially in households facing mobility or scheduling challenges.
Waymo also recently celebrated a major operational milestone: 100 million fully autonomous miles driven on public roads. The company currently operates rider services in Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, and Atlanta, with Miami and Washington, DC listed as coming soon.
🌀 Tom’s Take:
Waymo has been working hard at building trust with the public to assure them that their vehicles are safe. This rollout adds a new dynamic by asking parents to trust their teens to take rides all on their own. The protocols and processes they have put in place with this feature demonstrate their commitment to this.
