The Teens Are Taking Waymos Now

image via WIRED

July 8, 2025, 5:00 PM

• •Waymo is expanding its self-driving car service to teenagers in Arizona, allowing them to ride alone.
• •The teen service, which could expand to other US markets, aims to address anxieties around transportation and parental concerns.
• •Waymo is incorporating safety measures, 24/7 customer support, and potential features like karaoke mode for teen riders.
• •The move raises questions about the social impact of robot rides and the potential for increased isolation among teens.

Waymo is introducing a self-driving car service for teenagers, starting in Arizona, to provide independent transportation. This service, which might expand to other US markets, is intended to address teens' and parents' anxieties about driving and schedules. Teen accounts will be linked to adult accounts, and offer 24/7 customer support. The article also raises questions about the potential social impact, including isolation, that robot rides could have on teenagers.

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