← Google Interview Insights

Google·Product Manager·Onsite - Product Sense / Strategy·Senior

SeniorPrefer not to say
Jun 2026

Summary

Went through a product strategy question at Google centered on Waymo. Just the one question but it branched out in a lot of directions fast.

Questions Asked (1)

Q1

How would you decide whether to show ads on Waymo self-driving cars?

Product StrategyPricing & MonetizationProduct Sense & Ideation
Author's notes

This one pulled me in two directions at once.

Create a free account to read the full note

AI HintsAI Generated

Suggested Approach

Start by clarifying the goal—whether it's to monetize the service, offset costs, or enhance user experience—then evaluate ad viability through user experience, safety, and business impact lenses. Structure your answer by segmenting the rider journey, assessing ad formats, and weighing trade-offs against Waymo's brand and regulatory constraints.

Pro tip: Emphasize that ads must never compromise safety or trust; propose non-intrusive, context-aware formats like destination-based recommendations or in-ride entertainment sponsorships, and suggest A/B testing with clear success metrics.

1. Clarify Objectives and Constraints

Define why Waymo would consider ads (e.g., revenue, cost offset) and identify constraints like safety regulations, brand reputation, and user expectations.

2. Map the Rider Journey

Break down the ride into phases (booking, waiting, in-ride, post-ride) to identify potential ad touchpoints without disrupting the core experience.

3. Evaluate Ad Formats and Value Exchange

Assess formats (e.g., in-app offers, in-car displays, audio) for intrusiveness and value to riders, considering personalization and privacy.

4. Assess Business and User Impact

Weigh potential revenue against risks like user dissatisfaction, safety distractions, and brand dilution; define metrics (e.g., CSAT, revenue per ride).

5. Recommend and Test

Propose a phased rollout with A/B tests, starting with opt-in or non-intrusive ads, and iterate based on data.

Key Points to Mention

  • Safety as a non-negotiable priority—ads must not distract drivers or riders in ways that compromise safety.
  • User experience and trust: Waymo's brand is built on trust; ads should enhance, not detract from, the ride.
  • Monetization models: consider subscription vs. ad-supported tiers, or partnerships with local businesses.
  • Privacy and data use: personalization requires data, so address consent and transparency.
  • Regulatory and legal considerations: ads in moving vehicles may face restrictions.
  • Metrics for success: define KPIs like incremental revenue, user retention, and satisfaction scores.

AI-generated suggestions, not part of the candidate's original notes. May be inaccurate — verify before relying on them.