Uber Lite is now available in Kenya and South Africa. Uber Lite is a simple version of the rider app that saves space, works on any network, and on any Android phone.
Unlike the regular app which is which is about 170MB, Uber Lite is less than 5MB in size. A smaller app frees up space for actual selfies and other apps. And, with a 300-millisecond response time (literally the blink of the eye), the booking process is fast even in low connectivity.
However as can be seen from the data size, all the features on the regular Uber app will not be available on the Uber Lite. But the essential information will be available. It is a good choice for someone who has a lower storage option and 2G/3G internet connectivity.
According to Alon Lits, General Manager for Uber Sub-Saharan Africa, the introduction of the lighter application was “obvious” for the South African market.
He said the new app retains the core functionality of the current app, and includes critical safety features – but it works faster in low connectivity areas, and for people with limited data plans.
“Every day, hundreds of thousands of South Africans rely on Uber for mobility and work, and we understand that a one-size-fits-all app doesn’t work for the diversity of network conditions, devices, and rider needs across the country,” Lits said in a statement.
Uber Lite was first rolled out in India in 2018.
Uber is currently available in thirteen cities in Sub-Saharan Africa — Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth, Nairobi, Mombasa, Lagos, Abuja, Kampala, Accra, Kumasi and Dar es Salaam.
