Automation and tourists
Not having a driver sucks if you are a tourist. With a human driver you can ask to go to that place where they filmed that movie and a good driver will know what you mean. While taxi drivers are known for getting a commission, they can still be handy if you are looking for a certain type of restaurant or you are shopping for something in particular (licit or illicit). They might also be able to tell you when's the best time to visit a location and what times are the worst.
The only upside might be if there is a language problem, but that's often covered if your mobile has coverage or you have installed a translation app.
I've had great cab drivers that I've used for a whole week in some places.