Waymo reveals remote workers in the Philippines help guide its driverless cars

A Waymo executive's admission at a Senate hearing has raised concerns about the operation of autonomous vehicles. During the hearing, Sen. Ed Markey questioned Waymo's approach when a vehicle faces an unsolvable situation. He stated, “The Waymo phones a human friend for help,” highlighting the role of remote operators.

Dr. Mauricio Peña clarified that these operators provide guidance but do not drive the vehicles. Markey criticized the lack of transparency regarding these operators, particularly their overseas locations, including the Philippines, raising safety and cybersecurity worries.

Waymo defended its use of overseas staff, stating they enhance operational scaling while ensuring stringent safety checks. The hearing follows increased scrutiny of autonomous vehicle safety after recent incidents, including a Waymo vehicle striking a child.

Congress is debating the need for federal safety standards as autonomous technology evolves.