Uber brings a host of new features to its new app

Uber, the global radio taxi service has a prominent presence in India. Since its launch in India, Uber has modified its policies and introduced features to suit the country. The application on mobile is the only touch-point for users to get on to an Uber cab. Uber is now introducing a bunch of new features to enrich the app, both for the rider and for the driver.

In the rider app,

• The app asks for the rider’s destination first, so it can give a better tailor made experience.
• Based on user’s pattern, the app will give shortcuts for user’s destination. For instance, if you regularly keep visiting your girl friend, the app will start showing it as your prefereed destination at that time. (better keep the app locked away from your wife)
• The app will soon read from your calendar and know the location of your meeting or appointment.
• If you sync your contacts with the app, it knows all your friends’ location and it can help you book a ride to meet them or pick them up.
• As the app knows your destination, it will load the different cabs available and will give you pricing based on the category.
• Later, the app will also sync with other apps in your mobile and will give you an integrated experience.

The new feature will be available to all Android and iOS users, via an update. The update will start rolling out in phases, starting from November 2016. Uber also has some exciting features for the driver app.

In the driver app,

• Twice a day, the driver can give their preferred destination. They can choose a route that would take them to a busy spot, or back to their home.
• While on the trip, if any rider request a ride, the driver can accept it and it will become their next ride.
• If the driver is tired and want a break, he/she can just hit the pause button.
• Heat maps integrated with the app, will help the drivers locate busy spots, where the can get rides easily.

Uber is now available in 29 cities and they are constantly expanding. With these new features, the Uber user experience is set to improve.

Update: 30 Nov 2016

Uber has now introduced “Dial an Uber” facility in 29 cities in India. With this feature, you can just request for an Uber cab, even if you don’t have the app installed. If you are facing low speed or spotty connectivity, you can use it as well.

How does it work?

1. Navigate to dial.uber.com on mobile phone browser
2. Enter your phone number to quickly login or sign-up
3. View pricing information, get a fare estimate, and request for your ride with a single tap
4. After requesting, instantly get connected with driver over call to coordinate pickup
5. Once the trip is completed, you can pay driver in cash