(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Uber launched a new feature on Wednesday, one which company officials said is meant to help keep both drivers and passengers safe.
The new feature allows passengers and drivers to start an audio recording during a trip by selecting the “record audio” option inside the safety tool kit in the app.
The other party in the vehicle will not be notified if a recording is initiated.
Uber said the recordings will be stored and encrypted so that they can't be accessed — not even by the person who started the recording. If there is a safety issue, though, the app user can file a safety report with the company using the recording.
The company also encouraged users to review state laws to ensure they're complying with consent requirements.
Earlier in 2023, local rideshare and delivery drivers pleaded with the Chicago City Council for protections from having their ability to work abruptly terminated without recourse.
The workers told City officials that they can be deactivated from every rideshare or delivery app based on one customer complaint, improper documentation, or something else.
“A lot of rideshare drivers right now are being unfairly deactivated for no reason at all,” said one driver during the council’s public comment session. “Sometimes passengers lie … a lot of us rideshare drivers, this is our only job. This is what keeps us out of trouble.”
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