Waymo is paying DoorDash gig workers to close its robotaxi doors

Core Insights - Waymo is piloting a program in Atlanta to compensate DoorDash drivers for closing doors left ajar on its autonomous vehicles, highlighting the need for human intervention in certain basic operations despite advanced technology [2][4]. - The company is also collaborating with Honk, an independent roadside assistance service, to pay users for similar tasks, with reports indicating payments of up to $24 in Los Angeles for closing a Waymo door [5]. - Waymo's valuation stands at $126 billion following a recent financing round, and it is a key component of Alphabet's Other Bets segment, which aims to leverage technology to address significant industry challenges [4]. Financial Performance - Alphabet's Other Bets segment, which includes Waymo, reported an operating loss of $7.5 billion last year, which encompassed a $2.1 billion stock-based compensation charge attributed to Waymo [5]. - Waymo's operational costs are impacted by the need to employ gig workers for tasks that could eventually be automated, indicating a reliance on human labor in the short term [4]. Market Expansion - Waymo has begun deploying its next-generation robotaxi and currently operates its fully autonomous service in six U.S. markets, with plans for further expansion within the year [6].