Waymo is gearing up to utilize data from its robotaxis, including video footage from interior cameras linked to rider identities, for training generative AI models. This development has prompted concerns regarding how much of a rider’s behavior within autonomous vehicles could be repurposed for AI training. An unreleased version of Waymo’s privacy policy, discovered by researcher Jane Manchun Wong, indicates that the company may also use rider data to personalize advertisements. Currently, Waymo collects personal information to enhance its services and supports advertising objectives, as mentioned in its existing privacy policy.
However, once this new feature is rolled out, riders will have the option to “opt out” of having their personal data sold, shared, or used for AI training. Julia Ilina, a spokesperson for Waymo, explained that while this feature is still being developed, it won’t alter the existing privacy policy but will allow users to refuse data collection for machine learning purposes. The draft privacy page outlines that Waymo may share data to enhance its functionality and tailor products, services, advertisements, and offers based on user interests. The inclusion of cameras, however, raises additional privacy concerns.
Notably, riders can opt out of their personal information, including interior camera data linked to their identities, being used for training generative AI. Waymo, currently the only autonomous vehicle firm generating revenue from robotaxi services in the U.S., has expanded its operations significantly. The company logs over 200,000 paid rides per week across several major cities and plans to launch commercial services in additional markets. Despite its growth, Waymo remains unprofitable for Alphabet, which could explain its exploration of alternative revenue streams, such as in-vehicle advertising and data sharing.
Waymo continues to invest heavily in research and development while facing the costs associated with fleet expansion and infrastructure. However, it remains uncertain how close the company is to breaking even, as Alphabet does not segregate Waymo’s financial performance in its earnings reports.