Uber Allows Users To Book Rides Via WhatsApp In India

Uber, the popular cab service, and Meta Platform Inc.’s WhatsApp have joined hands to allow ride-booking via WhatsApp in India. It’s a step forward for Uber and WhatsApp in the country. Likewise, users in India can book rides from WhatsApp without the Uber app installed.

On Thursday, Uber announced a service update stating that users can book rides using a chatbot on the messenger platform. The new service is a global-first, and India is the first country to get it.

“Riders will no longer need to download or use the Uber app. Everything from user registration, booking a ride, and getting a trip receipt will be managed within the WhatsApp chat interface,” said Uber’s announcement. As a result, Indian users can register for Uber, book rides, and have all the main app features via WhatsApp.

WhatsApp is the most popular messaging app in the country, with over half a billion users. Hence, India has its most extensive single-user base.

“Riders get the same safety features and insurance protections as those who book trips via the Uber app directly.”

Furthermore, the service will roll out in the northern city Lucknow, followed by the capital New Delhi, and spread to the entire nation in the coming year. Users will be able to book rides via WhatsApp in a few easy steps. Users can do this by visiting the Uber Chatbot, registering themselves, and following the on-screen instructions.

WhatsApp is quite popular in the country, and other services such as JioMart came up with similar integrations. Last year, Mukesh Ambani’s JioMart, a grocery service, introduced online orders via WhatsApp in the country.