In the Phoenix metro area, you don’t need to worry about an annoyed Uber or taxi driver. The self-driving taxis from Google-spinoff Waymo will patiently wait while you run out to pick up dinner or drop off a package.
That’s because the Waymo app now has an “add a stop” option. Riders using the Waymo One autonomous ride service can pick up a friend or some groceries without having to reorder a car at each stop.
Add a stop.
Image: waymo
You can make a short stop, like dropping off your sister, or a long stop, like picking up a package at FedEx. For a longer stop, Waymo cars — which are all modified Chrysler Pacifica minivans, but will soon include electric Jaguar I-Pace SUVs —will wait nearby and pick you back up once you’re ready to head to the next location.
Waymo product manager Sam Kansara said in a recent call “the meter is not running while on your long stop.” In a traditional taxi cab, you’re charged for the time the driver spends idling while you get your coffee. Waymo, however, shows you the cost of the trip with all your stops before you get into the car.
Kansara said the new feature is “all about reducing that anxiety,” but it also makes it a more luxurious experience, like you have a private driver taking you around on your errands. You don’t have to worry about driving or parking.
A new way to stay entertained in an autonomous vehicle.
Image: waymo
In another attempt to improve the rider experience, Waymo is officially ditching its Google Play Music playlists for the ability to connect riders’ phones to the computer screens in the self-driving cars.
The new music system works best for Android users. On Android devices, you can connect with Google Cast and play any audio apps like Spotify, Google Podcasts, or YouTube Music. For iPhone and other devices, you need to have the Google Assistant app, which connects to the in-car audio system. Then you are plugged into your own playlists or audiobooks you were listening to before the car arrived.
The new music feature is still in testing with some early riders in the Phoenix area and employees in the San Francisco Bay Area.
These are some of the newer features that Waymo is hoping will make its car service stand out, aside from the whole self-driving thing.