Uber announces new driver-first initiatives like Bike Intercity and WhatsApp onboarding

Uber announces new driver-first initiatives like Bike Intercity and WhatsApp onboarding | Photo Credit: Haider Ali Khan Uber has introduced a range of new features and expanded earning opportunities for over 20 lakh driver partners on its platform in India, at the third edition of its Uber Pragati event in New Delhi on Thursday (October 29, 2026).Uber launched ‘Flexible Drive Pass,’ offering subscription passes ranging from six hours to 180 days to accommodate both part-time and full-time schedules.It has also started to simplify the driver onboarding process through ‘Quickstart,’ enabling drivers to sign up directly via WhatsApp, where a bot will guide them through the entire process, while a third-party will do the necessary background security check.Uber has also announced the ‘Earn First, Pay Later’ feature that grants eligible drivers an additional credit limit to accept cash trips even when their account balance runs out.The ride-hailing platform has introduced in-app voice notes as well in which driver can communicate through voice notes to make the discovery easier in case of confusion. It has redesigned driver app too that further streamline communication and earnings management.Uber will now allow Bike Intercity for shorter trips between neighbouring towns and cities, including routes such as Delhi-Meerut, so that drivers can enhance their earnings. With Uber Direct, bike drivers can also fulfill delivery orders for businesses, while Uber Parcel enables them to deliver personal packages within cities.Uber highlighted its 24×7 Ambulance Assistance partnership with Dial 4242, which has already provided emergency medical support on 25 occasions in under four months.Additional safety measures include ‘Record My Ride’ encrypted video recording to assist police in resolving disputed incidents, real-time chat flagging to prevent inappropriate rider messages, and a centralised Driver Safety Hub for quick access to safety settings.“We are giving drivers the freedom to work on their own terms, the confidence of industry-leading safety protections and more ways to earn,” said Aditya Kapoor, Director – Supply Operations, Uber India and South Asia. Published - October 29, 2026 02:24 pm IST