Uber has begun quietly piloting an in-app video recording feature for its drivers in India, allowing them to record trips without using external cameras. The test is live in 10 cities, including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Pune, Kolkata, Jaipur, Chandigarh, and Lucknow. The move follows growing concerns among drivers about passenger misconduct, coercion, and false complaints that can result in sudden account deactivation.
According to drivers involved in the pilot, the tool is intended to give them more protection and evidence during disputes. Many drivers reported facing situations where riders threatened complaints over small disagreements like route choices or fare expectations.
The recorded videos are double-encrypted, stored locally on the driver’s phone, and only accessible if either the driver or rider files a safety-related report. Uber cannot view the footage unless it is voluntarily shared. If no complaint is filed, recordings are automatically deleted after seven days, addressing privacy risks.
Uber has not publicly announced the feature, and it remains unclear whether it will expand nationwide. The pilot’s results, especially related to privacy, legal compliance, and driver-rider trust, will determine the next steps. If implemented fully, this could significantly reshape safety norms in India’s ride-hailing industry.
