Waymo resumes freeway robotaxi service after software updates

Waymo is gradually reinstating freeway routes for its driverless ride‑hailing fleet after a two‑month suspension that began in May. The company said software updates improve scene recognition and routing around construction zones, allowing the service to restart in Phoenix and to expand soon to Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area.

The pause occurred amid heightened regulatory scrutiny. Representative Kevin Mullin (D‑CA) has introduced legislation urging federal regulators to set national safety standards for autonomous‑vehicle operators after incidents in which robotaxis blocked ambulances, entered active crime scenes, and failed to recognize safety signals such as cones and flares. Waymo previously launched freeway service in November 2025 across San Francisco, Phoenix and Los Angeles, later adding Miami. In June the firm voluntarily recalled nearly 4,000 robotaxis after identifying at least 13 cases of vehicles entering closed highway sections. No injuries were reported.

Waymo announced the rollout via a post on X, noting that the updates are designed to ensure safe operation in construction zones and other high‑traffic situations.