In this in-depth conversation, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi discusses the company’s strategic expansion beyond ridesharing — including hotel bookings through a new Expedia partnership, personal shopping services, and even snacks in vehicles. He explains Uber’s vision to evolve into an “everything app” by enhancing the travel experience with technology and AI innovations, while navigating risks and trade-offs inherent in a growing platform. Dara shares insights on the current state and future of AI integration at Uber, from coding assistance to customer service automation, as well as the impact of AI token usage on hiring strategies.
The discussion also covers Uber’s significant investments in autonomous vehicle technologies through partnerships and equity stakes with companies like Rivian, highlighting the milestones and challenges in bringing robotaxis to market. Importantly, Dara addresses what autonomy means for Uber’s drivers, anticipating new complex roles in a mixed human-and-robot driving future. Lastly, he reflects candidly on the limits of AI, the current slow adoption of ride bookings via AI chatbots, and even the emergence of an AI version of himself at Uber for internal use, emphasizing that the best future leadership combines human and AI teaming.
This interview offers an unusually transparent look at how one of the world’s leading tech companies balances innovation, risk, AI advancements, and human impact as it moves into a new era of mobility and travel.
