Uber is bridging the digital gap with a feature that allows users to request a ride just as they would hail a traditional taxi – by making a phone call. The ride-hailing giant is offering a new way for customers to request a ride, especially those who “aren’t as familiar with navigating a smartphone.” “Now, everyone in the family can enjoy the same effortless Uber experience, even without the app,” said Dara Khosrowshahi in the company’s press release.
The company launched this feature at its annual Go-GET event, unveiling a toll-free number (1-833-USE-UBER or 1-833-873-8237) in the U.S for customers to speak with an agent and request an immediate or future ride in English or Spanish.
The call-to-book feature isn’t entirely new to Uber though. In November last year, the company introduced “a new way to ride with Uber: 1-833-USE-UBER”, noting that some people would prefer to talk to someone on the phone. TechCrunch’s report claims Uber launched the program in select regions around December 2020, specifically Arizona and Florida but the service was temporarily paused, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, Uber is rolling out this feature more widely, marking a significant expansion.
Here’s how it works: Customers dial the toll-free number from a phone and speak to a team member. Once the ride has been confirmed, Uber sends a text message with details about the ride, including the driver’s name, picture, license plate number, and their estimated time of arrival. Finally, the customer receives another text message when the driver arrives at their pickup location.
For those with an existing Uber account, they can inform the agent and use an existing payment method on file. Those without an account can pay with a credit card over the phone, and the agent can help create an account for them.
As for tips, riders who book via phone won’t have the option to tip through the app. However, Uber has clarified that riders are free to give cash tips to drivers if they wish to do so.
This initiative by Uber demonstrates its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that the benefits of ride-hailing services are accessible to all, regardless of their familiarity with technology.
Also, at the annual Go-GET event, the company launched a new feature specifically for teenagers aged 13-17. This feature, set to debut on May 22 in select US and Canadian cities, is designed to provide parents and caretakers peace of mind by offering a safe and supervised way for teens to get around.
Only experienced, highly-rated drivers will be allowed to complete trips with teen passengers, who will benefit from privacy-preserving safety features like Verify My Ride, RideCheck, and Audio Recording. Parents will have the ability to track their teen’s trip live and contact the driver or Uber’s support team at any time. Uber also plans to extend this feature to Uber Eats, allowing parents to monitor their teen’s orders and spending within the app.
The introduction of these features emphasises Uber’s dedication to improving the user experience and solidifies its position as a leader in harnessing technology to promote connectivity and accessibility within the shared economy.
