Uber is introducing a new SOS feature to improve safety for passengers and drivers. The feature will let users share their real-time location and trip details directly with police during emergencies.
The SOS button in the Uber app will send information about the car, driver, and journey to the police control room. It can also trigger a call to the police helpline.
This feature has completed testing in Telangana. Currently, it is being piloted in Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. However, the final integration with police control rooms is pending approval. As per sources, the feature will go live as soon as the police approve the partnership.
Despite aggregator cabs being required to install panic buttons, these are often not connected to police control centers. Interestingly, the red panic button installed in Uber taxis is connected to Uber's dashboard instead of police authorities. It should be noted that installing two panic buttons in each cab costs around INR 10,000.
Uber's panic button inside cabs is not yet connected to police systems. For non-emergency concerns, Uber operates a 24/7 helpline. This allows users to file complaints during the trip or within 30 minutes after it ends.
Uber has also introduced other safety measures. Women riders can now choose female drivers. Additionally, riders can record audio during trips if they feel unsafe. This audio is stored securely and can only be accessed if the rider includes it in a safety report.
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