Uber overhauls its app to address coronavirus safety

Uber has has rebuilt his app to ensure that its drivers and drivers comply with the safety guidelines relating to the novel corona virus. Before each trip, drivers and passengers must agree to a checklist of points, including wear a face maskIf possible, keep the windows down and don’t let anyone sit in the front seat.

“Many countries around the world are in a new phase of recovery,” said Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi during a press conference on Wednesday. “We have created a new product experience for a new normal.”

Khosrowshahi said the company saw the number of trips increase as accommodation orders waned. To ensure the safety of drivers and passengers and prevent the spread of the corona virus, Uber decided to redesign the app with a focus on health security.

“The next time you open the app, things will be a little different for drivers and drivers,” said Khosrowshahi.

Uber drivers say they have had a difficult time during the pandemic. Many have been reported to have COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, and at least five are known to have died from the disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have recommended not to sit in confined spaces with strangers like a car to reduce the risk of infection.

“If cities and countries emerge from this blockage, we all need to work together to keep each other safe and healthy while traveling,” said Sanchin Kansal, senior director of product management at Uber, during the press conference. “The technology we’ve developed is flexible and adaptable … and it will evolve over time.”

Uber has redesigned its apps for drivers and drivers. When drivers request a trip, they are first taken to a checklist. This includes agreeing that they do not have COVID-19 symptoms and wearing a mask, opening the windows and sitting in the back seat. Only then does Uber’s system look for a driver.

When drivers log into the app, they have to agree to a checklist. This list does not include symptoms, wearing a mask, and disinfecting the car. The drivers must also take a selfie with a mask to start driving.

Uber takes similar security measures for Uber Eats. Food delivery employees must agree to wear facial coverings at all times and follow customer instructions, e.g. B. Leave food at the door. Restaurants also have policies, such as social distancing for couriers while they are waiting.

In all of these cases, drivers, drivers, couriers and restaurants can report if someone does not follow the rules. For example, if a passenger takes off his mask while driving, a driver can report the Uber incident. If someone repeatedly has violations, they may be kicked out of the app.

“Our goal here is to protect everyone,” said Kansal. “We understand that responsibility starts with us.”

Uber said it redesigned its apps under the guidance of the World Health Organization and the CDC. The changes will be rolled out worldwide on Monday, May 18.

This story is developing …