Robotaxis Face Reality Check as Tech’s Next Wave Takes Shape

Robotaxi deployment is rapidly moving from pilot projects to real-world streets, with major technology players racing to scale autonomous ride services. Companies backed by Alphabet and Amazon see robotaxis as a cornerstone of future urban mobility, promising safer roads, lower costs, and reduced congestion.

However, a recent power outage in San Francisco exposed a critical vulnerability. Several autonomous vehicles operated by Waymo were temporarily immobilized, raising a fundamental question: how do driverless systems respond when conditions demand urgent human judgment or emergency action?

The incident has intensified scrutiny from regulators and city authorities. As robotaxis increasingly share public roads, policymakers are questioning whether existing safety frameworks are sufficient for large-scale deployment, especially during infrastructure failures or natural disasters.

Emergency preparedness has emerged as a key concern. Scenarios such as earthquakes, floods, or large-scale power outages demand rapid decision-making, coordination with first responders, and adaptability—areas where autonomous systems are still evolving.

Critics argue that while robotaxis perform well under normal conditions, edge cases remain a major challenge. Without robust contingency protocols, a citywide disruption could quickly turn into a mobility crisis.

Autonomous vehicle companies counter that such incidents are part of the learning curve. They emphasize ongoing investments in redundancy, remote assistance, and fail-safe mechanisms designed to improve resilience during emergencies.

Beyond robotaxis, the broader technology landscape is gearing up for another wave of transformation. Consumer electronics makers are expected to push boundaries with foldable smartphones, including long-rumored foldable iPhones that could redefine premium devices.

Artificial intelligence is also moving beyond narrow tasks. Humanoid robots designed to assist in homes, factories, and healthcare settings are inching closer to commercial viability, supported by advances in perception and reasoning.

Another emerging frontier is “world models”—AI systems that can simulate and predict real-world environments, enabling machines to plan, adapt, and learn more like humans.

Taken together, these developments suggest a year of rapid innovation tempered by real-world tests. As technology becomes more embedded in daily life, resilience, safety, and trust will matter just as much as breakthrough features.