Uber has announced a new safety feature allowing passengers to record audio of their journeys directly through the app. The feature, launching on Thursday, is designed to provide 'extra peace of mind' for users.
Passengers can activate the recording with a simple button press before or during a trip. The audio is encrypted and stored on the passenger's device, and only accessible to Uber if uploaded as part of a safety report. Drivers will be notified if recording is activated and can cancel the trip without penalty.
Additionally, Uber is introducing a verified badge for passengers who have had their personal details cross-checked with third-party databases or uploaded an official ID and selfie. This badge will appear on the rider's profile when requesting a trip from next week.
Uber UK general manager Andrew Brem said: 'We are always investing in new ways to make journeys even safer. These new safety features provide both riders and drivers with extra peace of mind.'
Local transport minister Lilian Greenwood welcomed the move, stating: 'Everyone deserves to feel safe when travelling... I welcome Uber taking further steps to strengthen safety on its platform.'
Lucy Duckworth of the Survivors Trust described the features as 'a positive step,' while Uber driver Kola Olalekan noted that the verification badge would give him 'extra confidence' when accepting bookings.
