Uber's Six-Step Program to Absolve Itself from Waymo's Lawsuit

Uber and Waymo's lawsuit is starting to pan out. Following a ruling on Monday, May 15, Judge Alsup, who called Waymo's patent infringement claims "meritless," ordered Uber to perform a series of actions and duties for Waymo. Without further ado, here's what Uber must do to begin to put this lawsuit behind them (well, maybe):

1: Return the Docs

Uber has been ordered to do what it needs to prevent Anthony Levandowski and any other employees from accessing the stolen Waymo documents. Uber must then return the documents to either Waymo or the court by noon on May 31.

2: Remove Levandowski

Levandowski has already stepped away from Uber's driverless program, but the court has ruled he must have nothing to do with Uber's LiDAR program — nothing at all. Uber must do whatever they must to prevent any communication between Levandowski and the LiDAR division, including all involved with it. The order reiterates that Levandowski must not have access to the stolen documents.

3: Show Who Knows What

Uber has been ordered to provide a detailed report of anyone, inside or outside of Uber, who was told anything about the stolen Waymo documents and had any contact with Levandowski about them. Uber must gather all interviews under oath. The ruling requires Uber to deliver the accounting to the court by June 23 at noon.

4: Reveal Everything Levandowski Said

Uber must deliver a report of all communication Levandowski had about the LiDAR technology, including when, where, and to whom. Uber must also submit these reports by noon on June 23.

5: Show the Goods

Waymo's counsel and one expert will have complete access to Uber's LiDAR technology, to provide additional evidence in their case. Waymo will also receive, with limitations, seven other deposition days.

6: Comply

The last request is simple — Uber must keep a record of compliance with all orders noted above, including possible supervision at Uber facilities to make sure Levandowski is kept separate from all things LiDAR.

So, there you are, Uber — all you have to do to put this mess behind you (unless Waymo finds evidence of trade secret theft in your LiDAR). And all Waymo has to do is front a $5 million security bond, and you can get started.

Sounds like a good time for all.

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Cover photo by Elliott Brown/Flickr