Uber has introduced some exciting set of features on its app that will make it even easier for driver-partners across Ghana to choose when, where, and how they drive.
Driver-partners in Ghana chooses to drive with Uber because they can use the app on their own terms. With these new features, Uber is doubling up on what’s made Uber the first choice for flexible opportunities and making it even better, a statement from Uber said.
These new features follow the recent launch of Uber’s In-App Chat, a feature which allows driver-partners and riders to chat right in the Uber app without having to share their phone numbers with one another when they need to get in touch.
The General Manager for Uber West Africa, Lola Kassim, explains, “Over the last few months, we’ve spent a lot of time listening to and engaging with over the 3,000 driver-partners across Ghana, hearing what they need from the Uber app so that we can improve and transform the driver experience.
“We are thrilled about the feedback we received as driver-partners have been very clear on what they need. Based on their responses, we will be rolling out products that can address three keys areas: more flexibility for drivers when it comes to when they want to use Uber, using Uber technology to create a stress-free experience, and building on safety.”
Among the number of products that drivers have asked for: Driver Share My Trip, Arrival Destination & Time, Long trip notification among others
With the ‘Driver Share My Trip,’ Uber already offers a way for riders to share their trip status with their contacts, and so the Share My Trip feature now allows drivers to share the trip information with loved ones, without implicating the privacy of the rider or divulging personal information or specific drop off or pick up points.
Again, drivers will now be able to set the time that they want to arrive at their final destination at any time of the day with the Arrival Time feature. As drivers go about their day with the destination and arrival time set, the app will notify them when it’s time to start heading toward their destination. At that time, they’ll be connected with a trip along the same path. This allows for more flexibility and allows them to make a little extra money on the way.
Furthermore, the long trip notification means that information will be sent to driver-partners to fit driving around their lifestyle, which means drivers will now get a heads-up when a trip is estimated to be 45 minutes or longer, so they can plan accordingly.
‘No Thanks’ button: This new feature provides drivers the flexibility to turn down trips without worrying how it will affect their earnings. Currently, drivers can either confirm and take a trip request or wait for the request to timeout. However, with this new feature, the ‘no thanks’ button, drivers can decline the trip right away – it’s good news for riders too as the request gets passed on to another driver sooner meaning shorter waiting times for riders.
Kassim explains, “When Kobina goes online to start accepting rider requests, he can use the “Share My Trip” feature to share his information about his trip with his wife such as where he is on the map. He is in control to start and stop sharing with his wife or other contacts as he’d like, and she can easily see his whereabouts on a map with quick-dial contact details and his license plate number.”
She said drivers play a key role in defining Uber’s future and we want them to know that we are committed to ensuring the app works best for them first. We believe these new features will create meaningful changes to their lives and driving experience,”
But this is only the start – by putting driver-partner concerns and dialogue at the heart of Uber’s strategy, Uber will continuously work on improving their experience with the app.
“This isn’t just about new features – it’s about a sustained commitment over time, and Uber is incredibly excited to apply the full strength of Uber to improve and transform the driver experience for the 7000 men and women who drive with Uber every week.”
