TRANSPORT network company Uber Philippines has figured out a way to address the problem of technological gap between generations of smartphone users, launching a new feature in its app that allows customers to acquire rides for people in their contact list.
Cat Avelino, who heads the communications department of Uber Philippines, said the company will allow users to use the “Request a Guest” starting on June 28.
The new feature automatically inquires whether a ride is for another person once the user sets a pickup point different from the current location indicated in the app.
“‘Request for a Guest’ is Uber’s answer to those like the elderly who are not as tech-savvy, but want to make use of Uber’s services,” she said.
Drivers’ details are automatically sent to the intended contact, including a link to track their location.
Avelino said this could help decongest traffic in Metro Manila.
Uber Philippines claims to have saved 1.5 million vehicle kilometers of traffic flow in the Metro as of July 2016, as well as 75,000 tons of metric fuel.
Rider surveys conducted during the same year also revealed a 79-percent reduced usage of private vehicles attributed to the app.
“Uber is committed to providing safe, reliable transportation options for everyone in the family. So no matter where your loved ones need to be—and where you are located—a safe, reliable ride is just a few taps away,” Avelino said.