WhatsApp user? You don't need Uber cabs app! Know how to make Uber WhatsApp chatbot work

Do you use Uber cabs to travel to your workplace or any other destination frequently? If yes, then here is some good news for you. Uber Technologies Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc.’s WhatsApp have rolled out Uber cabs booking via the WhatsApp messenger service in India called Uber WhatsApp chatbot. "Starting this week, we are rolling out a new service that gives people the option to book an Uber ride via an official Uber WhatsApp chatbot," Uber said in a release. The integration, a global-first for Uber, is rolling out first in Lucknow and then it will be introduced to users in New Delhi, and India-wide next year.

However, with the roll out of the Uber WhatsApp chatbot service in India, WhatsApp users will be able to register and book rides and receive trip receipts entirely within the chat interface, making it unnecessary to install and use Uber's own ride booking app. Also, the company has informed that safety features and insurance protections are unchanged between rides booked on Uber or WhatsApp. Driver name, license plate and location en route to pickup will all be included in the WhatsApp booking information.

Also, Uber has said that now users will be able to book a ride via WhatsApp in English only, but the facility will be expanded to other Indian languages soon. The WhatsApp chat flow will inform the rider about safety guidelines, including how to reach Uber in case of emergencies (type help on-trip).

If the user selects the “emergency” option while on the trip, they will receive an inbound call from Uber’s customer support team. Uber riders will also have access to the safety line numbers to call the Uber team, if needed, until 30 mins after the trip ends.

Drivers on Uber’s platform, however, will see no change in their experience with rides booked via WhatsApp.

Also, the service is available to both new and existing users who registered with only a phone number on Uber.

How to make it work

WhatsApp users can book an Uber ride through three simple ways: messaging to Uber’s business account number; scanning a QR code; or clicking a link directly to open an Uber WhatsApp chat.

They will then be asked to provide pickup and drop off locations. Users will receive upfront fare information and the driver’s expected time of arrival.