Uber is set to launch a new safety feature that aims to enhance security during rides by an introducing audio recording feature. The e-cab company plans to introduce this functionality through its driver and ordinary app, allowing both drivers and riders to record their trips using their smartphone microphones.
One of the key aspects of this feature is its focus on privacy and security. Uber ensures that the audio recordings remain inaccessible to drivers unless they willingly share them with the company as part of a safety report. This means that users can freely document their journey without immediate concerns about misuse.
The audio recording feature was initially announced for the United States in December 2021, and later expanded to Latin America. It was launched in South Africa, marking the first appearance of the feature in Africa. Kenya will be the third market to gain access to this feature, further highlighting Uber’s commitment to global safety measures.
According to Imran Manji, the Uber’s Head of East Africa, drivers and riders can submit audio recordings when they initiate the ride through the app. These files are encrypted and stored directly on the respective user’s device. The feature’s availability is visible to both parties, but they remain unaware of whether it is actively being used during the trip.
“Your privacy is protected and the audio will only be reviewed if you request that the Uber Support team review it. Our team can only listen to an audio recording if you choose to share and request that we review it. All audio recordings are encrypted and stored securely on your device. Neither you nor your driver will be able to access them,” said Uber in a statement.
To ensure data integrity, the audio files are time-stamped, which proves helpful if a user’s phone unexpectedly loses power.
Uber has also designed the system to automatically delete the recordings from a user’s device after a period of 7 days, prioritizing user privacy and limiting unnecessary data retention.
