Waymo retention leads Uber, Lyft as it expands coverage area

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Over 33% of Waymo customers returned 13 quarters after their first transaction, leading both Uber and Lyft according to Earnest credit card data. The robo-taxi launched in Phoenix in 2020 and later San Francisco in 2022. Waymo recently increased its San Francisco service area to 55 square miles and dropped its waitlist, making it available to anyone with the app. Waymo also operates in Los Angeles. 

Waymo trips are limited to only three urban areas so far, making them typically shorter and less expensive than many Uber and Lyft rides. But so far customers have shown enthusiasm for the service as more than a novelty, returning at much higher rates. 

Waymo may have a future as its own gig-worker. The company inked a deal with Uber in Phoenix so that Uber app users can choose to book a Waymo if one is matched to them.