Waymo has published videos about how their remote operator system works. Waymo's are never remotely driven. They're just told what the operator thinks is the best place for them to go next in a situation where the vehicle can't make that decision. This is critical to controlling opex. Waymos operate 24/7, that means three shifts of operators plus coverage for weekends, vacation, and sick time. This is where the difference between a demo and a product is going to be decided. Alphabet could be reckless about spending on remote operators. But I think they're still processing the trauma of buying Motorola and won't tolerate a big jump in headcount.

I guess, but my interaction with a real person in a waymo was limited to 15 seconds on my many rides, so I don't know if I'm just an anomaly or not.

> it's also a positive attraction eg. for anyone who worries about their safety with a rando taxi driver or Uber guy

Yes, this is the main reason to like it. I've had too many experiences with an Uber driver nearly falling asleep while transporting me.

> though presumably a significant part of the savings will be simply be the result of outsourcing to lower-wage countries.

Given how many Uber drivers are immigrants already, this is already happening if Waymo employs call center employees from the Philippines or not.

Also cost savings because you can do things like work the 8AM rush on the east coast and then 3 hours later start picking up the 8AM rush on the west coast with its 3h time zone difference.