latest
Uber surprises iOS users with a push notification ad for Peloton
Uber has started its advertising push, sending iOS users an ad for Peloton using push notifications.
A couple of weeks ago, Uber announced the formation of Journey Ads, a new division of the company that would be focused on promotion and advertisement in order to reach 122 million users of its platform. Today, reports have hit the internet that ads are now being from the app, with iOS users complaining that they are coming in through notifications. While advertisements in apps aren't a new concept by any means, this could become a bit of a slippery slope for the company if it doesn't execute things properly.
Smartphones are the center of a lot of our lives -- and with good reason. Several studies have proposed that smartphones themselves are an extension of a human at this point, and that's why privacy violations are so egregious. If you think about it, it makes sense. We message loved ones, plan our days, and interact with the real world using our smartphones as the primary medium. That's one pretty big reason why the Uber security breach is such a big deal.If you've ever used a ride-hailing service like Uber, step back and think about what kind of data you have entered into the app. You've definitely entered addresses, and you may have even entered your home address more than once. How did you pay? With your credit card? And you obviously had to link your phone number and email too, right? What about your full name? If any individual piece of information was shared online, you'd probably be fine. However, all of that, in one place, at the same time? That's bad and is a recipe for identity theft, credit card fraud, or, at worst, real-world ramifications like stalking or assault. In 2017, the American credit bureau Equifax was hacked and offered affected users settlement funds and free credit monitoring for life. Up to 147.9 million Americans were at risk of having their identities stolen, as information like SSNs, full names, birth dates, and more were taken in the breach.
Uber wants you to use its app when exploring nearby restaurants and venues
Uber is rolling out an Explore tab in select cities to encourage people to use its ride hailing service when heading to nearby restaurants.
Uber started as a ride hailing service that helps people find a cab wherever they are. It's convenient, as the car picks you up from your doorstep and takes you to the exact coordinates you choose on the map. You don't have to unnecessarily walk, wait, or run after a taxi -- which could be a lifesaver for those who have formal events on a stormy night. Eventually, though, the company started expanding its reach by exploring other fields. So, for example, it launched Uber Eats -- a food delivery service that grabs your mouthwatering, savory meals from certain restaurants and brings them to your house. It's all about convenience and doing less -- without missing out on the fun aspects of life. In an attempt to further expand its reach, Uber is now rolling out a new Explore tab for discovering nearby restaurants and entertainment venues in select cities.
You can no longer book an Uber ride from your Apple Watch
Uber has dropped support for the Apple Watch. You can no longer book a ride home from your wrist when your phone is dead.
The Apple Watch is a great device that the company keeps on improving with every new release. What once used to be a very limited wrist accessory is slowly becoming more capable and independent. The cellular models of this wearable make it even more powerful. They allow you to call, text, stream online music, and download apps -- even if your phone is dead. One of the perks of having a cellular model was the ability to book an Uber ride directly from your wrist. The feature worked even if your iPhone wasn't around. Wasted by the end of the night and spent all of your iPhone battery juice on selfies? Your cellular Apple Watch could get you back home. However, that's no longer the case, for Uber has killed its Apple Watch app.
Uber adds 3 new safety features for riders in India
In India, driver-related incidents have been on the rise, so Uber is taking action by introducing a trip of safety features.
Uber and its fleet of drivers are roaming the streets in many parts of the world. Every region has its own unique situations and Uber has to make sure to take these things into account. In India, driver-related incidents have been on the rise, so the company is taking action.
Automate Your Uber / Lyft Driving With A Free App
Check out this handy application to automate the handling of your Uber and Lyft apps to provide your driving services with ease across platforms!
Uber and Lyft are great alternatives to the traditional taxi system. Many XDA members even work as a driver in either company! Using two applications at the same time can lead to many problems, however.