Uber has introduced a series of new features aimed at improving the safety, convenience, and fairness of its platform for over one million drivers in India. The updates, designed to make driving for Uber more rewarding, support government social security initiatives and reflect Uber’s commitment to providing a safer, more transparent experience for its drivers.
Uber’s latest updates are aligned with the government’s Code on Social Security (CoSS), which aims to extend benefits to gig and unorganised workers. In a move to support e-Shram registration, Uber is offering cash incentives to the first 10,000 drivers who register on this unified database, enhancing drivers' access to social security benefits.
Speaking on these advancements, Prabhjeet Singh, President of Uber India & South Asia, emphasized the company’s mission to elevate the Uber experience and empower its drivers. “We take pride in being the platform of choice for over a million drivers in India. Our north star is to be the best platform in the world for flexible work, and raise the bar further on the Uber experience. The updates announced today empower drivers, enhance their safety, and offer greater convenience with more transparency in their everyday operations," he said.
Uber is prioritising safety with new features like Helmet Selfie, a technology prompting two-wheeler drivers to verify they are wearing helmets before starting trips. The feature, designed to improve safety on the road, is expected to be rolled out nationwide early next year. Similarly, a Women Rider Preference option allows female drivers to accept only female riders, helping them feel safer and work more flexible hours. Over 21,000 trips have already been completed using this feature. Another safety enhancement is an audio recording option, allowing drivers to record audio during a trip if they feel unsafe. The recordings are encrypted, ensuring privacy, and Uber can access them only if they are submitted as part of a safety report.
The new features also make the driving experience easier and more financially rewarding. A new Upfront Tipping feature enables riders to add a tip before their trip begins, encouraging quicker ride acceptance and boosting drivers' earnings. Additionally, Uber has improved its payment technology, allowing drivers to cash out their earnings instantly, up to four times a day, giving them real-time access to their income. New drivers are also paired with experienced mentors under Uber’s mentorship program to help them navigate the platform, while the mentors are compensated for their guidance.
On the fairness front, the revamped Earnings Hub offers drivers a transparent breakdown of their weekly earnings, highlighting that the majority of fares go directly to them, alongside clear details on taxes, fees, and tips. Uber has also introduced a Deactivation Review Center, a feature that allows drivers to view any actions taken on their profiles, understand the reasons, and appeal decisions with evidence. Over 5,000 drivers have reportedly been reinstated following legitimate appeals.
