The issue is lack of transparency over the amount of editorial influence that Waymo exercised. This is why I linked to Snazzy Labs' comment about their experience making one of the other Waymo-sponsored videos.

I genuinely don’t understand the issue. If you see the word “sponsored” you should assume editorial control unless there’s an explicit statement otherwise. That’s what it’s there for.

Most YouTubers constantly play fast and loose with what is and isn’t sponsored content and what it means for their editorial integrity or full stop integrity for what it’s worth - a commodity in shockingly short supply amongst modern content providers but what my culture would consider okay is significantly at odd with American culture when it comes to commercial interests.

Some will gladly view themselves alternatively as maker of educational content or entertainer as it suits them.