Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft continue to be all the rage, and now Google is getting into the game.
Google’s new ride service aims to help San Francisco commuters join carpools. The pilot program began around Google’s California headquarters in May. It arranges rides through the Waze app, which connects fellow commuters. The program will likely expand to be accessible to all Waze users in the San Francisco area this fall.
Google acquired Waze in 2013. The app offers real-time driving directions based on crowd-sourced information.
Waze doesn’t offer rides by paid drivers like Uber and Lyft, instead simply connecting commuters who are headed in the same direction. The company said it wants its fares to be low enough to discourage drivers from operating as taxi drivers. The pilot program charges riders a maximum of 54 cents a mile, and Google isn’t currently taking a cut. Essentially, Google says, the fees are reimbursements for gas.
The development could put Google at odds with Uber, a company it once invested in. In 2013, Google invested $258 billion in Uber. Uber has long used Google’s mapping software but recently began developing its own.
Read This Next
Carpool Made Easy with Bla Bla Car
Products / Technology
Oct 16, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / Europe
Apr 30, 2024Stay in This 14th-Century Hotel in Italy
Looking for a stay in a picturesque spot with modern amenities and some serious historic appeal — all for a steal? It sounds too good to be true, but that’s what you can expect at Hotel Hanswirt. This property in South Tyrol, Italy, dates back to the 14th century and offers a 4-star experience with a lot to love.
Sponsored Content
Welcome to Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro
Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro, operated by Aimbridge LATAM, opened its doors, welcoming guests to one of the most iconic and traditional properties in Monterrey, Nuevo León. Boasting 229 rooms and suites, the hotel, part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, is ready for discerning travelers. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the largest hotel franchise company in the world with approximately 9,100 hotels in more than 95 countries.
Slideshow
Apr 30, 20246 Must-Visit European Castles
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s six must-visit European castles.
Destinations
Apr 30, 20244 Coastal Hotels Promising Epic Surf Adventures
Calling all surfers! Hang 10 at these coastal hotels offering epic surf adventures.
Sponsored Content
Experience Ireland’s
Wild Atlantic Way
From the windy tip of Malin Head in County Donegal to the colorful harbor town of Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way amazes at every turn. Feel the blast of fresh sea air with a lighthouse walk. Get up close to history, grab a fireside seat at a traditional music session, experience the world-famous Irish hospitality and explore some of Ireland's most exhilarating coastal scenery. It is a place that inspired dreamers and travelers, poets and painters with a landscape filled with stone walls, thatched cottages, deserted beaches and breathtaking views. Charming towns and villages, 1,500 miles of soaring cliffs, incredible landscapes and unique experiences await.
Destinations / North America
Apr 29, 2024Explore Virginia Beach’s Thriving Culinary Scene
Virginia Beach is home to a flourishing culinary scene, with everything from classic seafood dishes and vegan restaurants to a guided beer trail and international cuisine.
ShareThis