Robotaxis rely on remote operators overseas, Waymo reveals

Waymo testified at a Senate hearing that its robotaxis may transfer control to remote drivers when faced with unusual situations, and many operators are based overseas (including the Philippines), underscoring how even so‑called autonomous systems rely on human labor. Lawmakers questioned foreign remote workers, safety implications, and potential import rules, while noting that other firms also depend on human monitors, illustrating that true autonomy remains tied to oversight and regulation.