Uber has introduced a series of new features in India to expand earning opportunities, improve safety and make its platform more convenient for drivers. Announced at the third edition of Uber Pragati on October 29, the initiatives include flexible subscription passes, WhatsApp-based onboarding, new delivery options and enhanced safety tools.
The company said the changes were developed based on feedback from its driver partners and are aimed at supporting different working patterns among its nearly 20 lakh drivers in India.
Flexible Subscription Passes and WhatsApp Onboarding
Uber’s new Flexible Drive Pass offers subscription options ranging from six hours to 180 days. The feature allows drivers to choose passes based on their working schedules, whether they work part-time or full-time.
Through Quickstart, drivers can now join the platform using WhatsApp, simplifying the onboarding process. The company has also introduced an ‘Earn First, Pay Later’ facility, allowing eligible drivers to continue accepting cash trips even when their Uber balance reaches zero, subject to an additional credit limit.
A redesigned Driver App brings earnings, trip details and important updates together. Drivers can also communicate with riders through voice notes in the in-app chat.
More Ways for Drivers to Earn
Uber is expanding earning opportunities beyond conventional passenger rides. Bike drivers can now take up intercity trips between neighbouring cities, including routes such as Delhi-Meerut.
Uber Direct allows drivers to fulfil business delivery orders, while Uber Parcel enables them to deliver personal packages within cities. Car drivers can earn additional income through Uber Pet by serving passengers travelling with pets.
The company has also expanded its refer-and-earn programme, rewarding drivers for bringing new earners onto the platform.
Ambulance Assistance and Encrypted Trip Recording
Uber has introduced additional safety measures for drivers and riders. Its Ambulance Assistance service, available through the 24/7 Safety Line in partnership with Dial 4242, has been used 25 times in less than four months to provide medical support following accidents.
The Record My Ride feature enables encrypted video recordings during trips. Uber said the recordings have helped police establish facts in a disputed incident involving a driver and a rider. Neither the driver nor the rider can directly access the encrypted recordings.
The company is also introducing Safety Content Flag, which identifies potentially inappropriate language in rider messages and prompts users to reconsider before sending them. Drivers receiving inappropriate messages can cancel eligible trips without affecting their cancellation statistics.
A new Driver Safety Hub brings tools such as audio recording and trip-sharing together, allowing drivers to keep selected safety protections enabled automatically.
Uber’s Focus on Driver Support
Uber India and South Asia Director of Supply Operations Aditya Kapoor said the company aims to provide drivers with greater flexibility, stronger safety protections and more ways to earn.
The latest measures reflect Uber’s effort to strengthen its driver-partner network as competition in India’s ride-hailing and mobility market continues to evolve.
