Uber launched several new safety features nationwide in an effort to improve the protection and security of its drivers and couriers. Many new features had successful pilot programs in select areas before being unveiled nationwide.
The updates were made for the over 7 million drivers and couriers that are on Uber's platform, the company said in a press release on September 17.
“We’re continuing to invest in new features to help drivers feel safer when driving on Uber,” said Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber.
Uber is rolling out enhanced rider verification nationwide, introducing a "Verified" rider badge that will appear on trip requests. This badge indicates that riders have completed additional verification steps, responding to driver feedback for more information about passengers. Riders can verify their identities through third-party databases or by uploading a government-issued ID.
The program was initially tested in select cities, where it demonstrated that verified riders received higher ratings and generated fewer serious complaints. Additional verification options will soon be available for existing CLEAR Members.
In conjunction with this, Uber is launching “Record My Ride,” a feature allowing drivers to record video and audio during trips using their smartphone’s front-facing camera. These recordings are encrypted and stored directly on the driver’s device, accessible only to them unless submitted for review. This feature also received positive feedback during pilot testing.
Furthermore, Uber is introducing new technologies to enhance safety, including the ability for drivers with Teslas to connect their car’s display to the Uber app for seamless navigation. iOS users can now use Siri for hands-free app control, and drivers can activate a PIN verification system to ensure they are picking up the correct rider.
Another feature to prevent driver and user confusion is the ability for drivers to communicate with a guest rider, for situations when the rider is different from the person who requested the ride. Starting soon, drivers will have the ability to communicate directly with guest riders via phone and in-app messaging, even if the guest does not have the app.