Waymo Teams Up with DoorDash to Bring Autonomous Delivery to Phoenix Streets

Breaking News: Waymo Partners with DoorDash to Revolutionize Delivery In a significant move, Alphabet-owned Waymo has partnered with food delivery giant DoorDash to test self-driving delivery services in Phoenix, Arizona. The multi-year partnership will see Waymo's autonomous vehicles deliver orders from DashMart, DoorDash's convenience and grocery stores, within a 315-square-mile area of the city. Key Details: The partnership is set to begin immediately, with Waymo's self-driving vehicles delivering orders from DashMart. Initially, not all DoorDash orders will be delivered by Waymo, but rather a select few within the designated area. This marks Waymo's return to delivery-focused testing after shuttering its Waymo Via program in 2023. Immediate Impact: The partnership is expected to bring significant changes to the way people receive deliveries in Phoenix. With Waymo's autonomous vehicles handling the task, customers can expect faster and more efficient delivery times. DoorDash customers will be able to opt-in for a self-driving delivery option when placing their orders. Background Context: Waymo has been testing its business model in Phoenix since 2018, including experimenting with delivery services through partnerships with UPS and Uber Eats. The company's focus on robotaxis has led to the development of its Waymo Via program, which aimed to bring self-driving trucks to the market. However, that program was shut down in 2023. What Happens Next: As the partnership between Waymo and DoorDash continues to unfold, we can expect to see more details emerge about the scope and scale of the delivery service. With this move, Waymo is once again testing the waters for its delivery-focused technology, potentially paving the way for a new era in autonomous logistics. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Techcrunch reporting.*