Waymo

Autonomous Vehicles · AI · Robotaxi

Launch

Waymo adds Google's Gemini voice assistant to its Ojai robotaxi

The assistant only talks and adjusts cabin settings, keeping strict separation from the self-driving system riders trust with their safety.

• Waymo launched 'Gemini in Waymo,' a beta voice assistant built into its Ojai robotaxi, alongside the first major redesign of its rider interface in years, unveiled July 29, 2026.
• Ojai is Waymo's purpose-built robotaxi, built by Zeekr and designed from the ground up for ride-hailing, unlike the retrofitted Jaguar I-Pace vehicles in its existing fleet.
• Riders summon Gemini via an on-screen icon for a live voice conversation to adjust cabin temperature, get local recommendations, or ask trivia, but it cannot steer, navigate, or access real-time driving data.
• The redesigned cabin uses a 'choreographed' tri-screen setup where each display shows different content depending on which seats are occupied, plus a minimal 'Calm Mode.'
• App teardowns spotted a leaked Gemini system prompt inside Waymo's app last year, meaning this launch turns a previously hidden prototype into a shipping consumer feature.
• By shifting focus from driving performance to in-cabin experience, Waymo signals the next phase of the robotaxi race may be fought over comfort and personalization rather than just autonomy metrics.