Uber passengers will soon be able to record audio during their journeys.
The new feature, aimed at improving safety, will be available through the Uber app from today (May 28) and is designed to offer “extra peace of mind” to users.
Passengers can start recording before or during a trip, with files encrypted and stored on their device.
Recordings will only be accessible to Uber if uploaded as part of a safety report and will be deleted after two weeks if a report is not made.
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Uber passengers can now record journeys in new change
Andrew Brem, Uber UK general manager, 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.
“Riders can record the audio of their journeys securely, and drivers can feel more confident about who is getting in their car.”
Drivers will be notified if a passenger activates audio recording before the trip begins and can cancel the ride without penalty if they choose.
In addition to audio recording, Uber is introducing a verified badge for passengers.
The badge will appear on profiles of users who have had their details checked against third-party databases or have uploaded an official ID and selfie.
Drivers will be able to see this verification when a passenger requests a ride starting next week.
Lilian Greenwood, the local transport minister, welcomed the updates.
She said: “Everyone deserves to feel safe when travelling, whether they are a passenger or a driver.
“I welcome Uber taking further steps to strengthen safety on its platform, giving people greater confidence when using private hire services, and showing how technology can help make everyday journeys safer.”
The Survivors Trust also expressed support for the changes.
Lucy Duckworth, from the organisation, said: “We have to create a safety-first culture as a society, where people respect each other and unsafe behaviour is challenged.
“These two new features are a positive step toward giving drivers and riders more confidence on their journey.”
Kola Olalekan, an Uber driver and GMB union branch secretary, said: “I’m really glad to know that Uber riders can now be verified, something GMB have been requesting from Uber for a while.
“Seeing a verification badge is going to give me extra confidence and makes me much more likely to accept a booking.”
What do you think of the new Uber feature allowing passengers to record journeys? Let us know in the comments.