Uber upgrades app to make it easy to set up multi-stop trips

SINGAPORE — Ride-hailing provider Uber has upgraded its app to make it easier for riders to add transit stops to their journeys, among other new features.

As of Friday (Aug 25), the app lets a rider indicate additional stops — up to three — at the point of booking, and find out the total fare upfront. The app has added a “+” tab in the field for users to fill additional stops for their destinations. They may also add and remove stops during their trips. Previously, riders could only do so by changing the destination in the app after they have hopped on.

Uber said one in five riders here have added stops during their trips.

The app now also has a chat function for drivers and riders to communicate, similar to what its rival Grab has. Messages are read out to drivers, who can respond with just a quick thumbs-up emoji with one tap. Previously, driver and user had to contact each other outside of the Uber app.

The ride-hailing firm made the news earlier this week when ComfortDelGro, Singapore’s largest taxi operator, announced it is discussing a potential strategic alliance with Uber. The tie-up could include teaming up on fleet management and booking software solutions, and making ComfortDelGro’s Comfort and CityCab taxis available on the Uber app.