In-car camera data could potentially be utilized by Waymo for artificial intelligence training and advertising, according to a recent report.
In the rapidly evolving world of autonomous vehicles, two key players, Waymo and Tesla, have been making strides in the industry. However, questions about their data collection practices and privacy concerns have been raised.
As the only U.S. robotaxi company generating revenue from paid rides, Waymo is expanding its operations into Atlanta, Miami, and D.C. within the next two years. The company's robotaxis are equipped with a comprehensive sensor suite, including 29 cameras, 5 lidar sensors, and 6 radars, primarily for environmental perception and safe driving decisions.
However, the use of interior camera footage in data collection has sparked privacy concerns. While Waymo's policy on using this data for AI training or personalized advertising is not publicly stated, it is focused on external environment and driving safety, with no indication of personalized ads using robotaxi footage as of now.
In contrast, Tesla's data collection practices for its robotaxis rely solely on external cameras (eight on their Robotaxis) and video processing as the core of their Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. Tesla collects extensive external visual data to train and improve its AI driving models. The company has not publicly highlighted using interior robotaxi footage for AI training or advertising purposes.
Analysts suggest that Waymo may be exploring new revenue sources, such as in-car ads and data monetization, as the company currently operates at a loss, with Alphabet investing $5 billion and outside investors adding $5.6 billion.
Privacy concerns are likely to increase as autonomous vehicles expand into new cities. Riders have the option to opt out of having their personal information used for AI training, but the specific data being collected, such as facial expressions or body language, remains unclear.
In terms of privacy policies, both companies are cautious, with limited public information available on their practices regarding interior camera footage for AI training or advertising. As these areas are sensitive, further details may remain internal.
Sources:
- Waymo's Self-Driving Car Tech Explained
- Waymo's Data Collection and Privacy Policies
- Tesla's Approach to Autonomous Driving
- Tesla's Data Collection and Privacy Policies
- Tesla's Full Self-Driving Capabilities
- As Waymo seeks to diversify its revenue streams, including potential revenue from in-car ads and data monetization, concerns about privacy and the use of interior camera footage for AI training or personalized advertising are being raised.
- Technology advancements, such as the use of artificial intelligence in autonomous vehicles, create a complex web of privacy issues that venture into uncharted territories, requiring careful monitoring and definitive business practices.
