Hello followers! Today, let’s dive into some exciting tech news about Waymo’s latest move to make autonomous rides safer and more accessible for teenagers in Phoenix.

Waymo has started offering special teen accounts to families in Phoenix. These accounts allow teenagers aged 14 to 17 to order their own robotaxi rides through the Waymo app, giving parents more peace of mind. Similar to Uber’s teen options, parents can connect a profile to their existing Waymo accounts, monitor trips, and ensure their teens can safely travel alone.

This new feature could be a game changer for parents hesitant to send their kids off with strangers. While Uber and other ride companies ensure drivers are highly rated, autonomous vehicles eliminate some safety concerns by removing human drivers altogether. California, for instance, requires fingerprinting for drivers transporting minors, a step that autonomous cars bypass, potentially simplifying safety protocols—if parents trust AI.

Despite the benefits, safety concerns remain. Uber and Lyft train drivers to detect issues like trafficking or abuse, but some cases have slipped through. TechCrunch questioned Waymo about how they verify a teen’s link to their family and what safeguards are in place if strangers join the ride. The company’s support team is available 24/7 to assist and relay information to parents when needed, emphasizing their commitment to safety.

Waymo’s move into offering teen accounts comes amid broader efforts to improve safety on the roads. The company plans to expand this service beyond Phoenix into other cities where their app is available, including Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Austin, Atlanta, Miami, and Washington D.C., with future possibilities of partnerships with ride-sharing services like Uber to broaden access.