Tech company is redesigning its app, here's all you need to know

folarin okunola

November 4, 2016 9:49 AM

The new app will give you the ability to compare rides upfront before starting your trip.

Uber CEO, Travis Kalanick

The app, which is what users who want Uber's services use, will not only be getting a new aesthetic design but a functional one as well.

In the new app, the interface will not start from "SET PICKUP LOCATION" like it does now. Instead, users will get a "Where to?" box in which they will input their destination.

Users will be able to connect their contacts to the Uber app and make any of their contacts their destination. Uber will send a note to the contact asking them to share their location and then show the driver that information.

Another feature which Uber is incorporating into the new rider app is shortcut prediction. The app will learn from your ride routine and make shortcut suggestions based on your location and time of day.

You will also be able to link your calendar to Uber to make the shortcut prediction even smarter. The app will use your itinerary to predict the shortest routes to get to all your destinations.

Example: If you have a breakfast meeting, an afternoon flight and have to check-in to a hotel in the evening, the app will predict the shortest routes to get you to your multiple destinations, provided you have it on the calendar.

ALSO READ: Drivers are going on strike in Abuja, here's why

The new app will also give you the opportunity to compare rides upfront before starting your trip. The idea is that if you have had an impromptu adjustment to that journey (maybe your friends suddenly show up and now you need more seats), you can take care of that before starting your trip. This feature will vary from country to country but the basic premise is the same.

At certain times, the app will also give easy walking directions to nearby locations that will be easier for drivers to get to. That way, riders and drivers don't have to spend more money and time calling each other in areas that are not so easy for drivers to reach.

You will also be able to manage your trip in one place. Once you request a ride, you'll be able to view your driver's details, track their arrival on the map, change your destination, split payment with friends, and also share your route in real time - all from one place.

Uber has also partnered with Pandora, so you can play music directly from the Uber app; Snapchat, so you will be able to unlock exclusive Snapchat filters; and Foursquare, so you will be able to get local tips.

Uber also says it will be bringing more extras into the app as time goes on. Get ready, your Uber experience is about to get a whole lot different. Uber also recently redesigned its wordmark and logo.

Uber has been having a tough time in Nigeria lately with driver's cars getting impounded for Uber's alleged tax evasion issues in Lagos State while drivers in Abuja recently went on strike over issues with the Uber Nigeria management.

folarin okunola