The ability to tap and order a cab has revolutionised the way we travel and get from point A to B. Apps such as Uber have disrupted the transportation sector and created a level of convenience that now many consumers simply cannot live without. However, due to the cost of connectively in some countries, the limited amount of connectivity as well as the restrictions on low-end Smartphones Uber has not been able to reach many consumers with its current application.
To meet these consumers needs and overcome restrictions to allow more users to request a ride-sharing service, Uber has decided to launch Uber Lite. Uber Lite will be a lightweight version of the current app that offers a simple, quick four tap booking service, requiring minimal data to download and can run in low connectivity areas.
What is Uber Lite?
Uber Lite is a secondary app by Uber designed to take up less storage space and allow for easier and fasting booking, as well as lighter in low connectivity areas. With Uber boasting that Uber Lite was built in India but was designed for the world, the aim is to provide a simpler version of the rider app and is adaptable on any Android phone. Additionally, Uber Lite will be ten times smaller than the current Uber app. At just 5MB, it will be the size of three selfies.
The Uber Lite is currently available for download on Android devices via the Google Play store.
Why the need for Uber Lite?
Alon Lits, General Manager for Uber Sub-Saharan Africa, states that this lighter app version was an “obvious” move from Uber for the South African market.
Additionally, Lits adds that:
“Every day, hundreds of thousands of South Africans rely on Uber for mobility and work, and we understand that a one-size-fits-all app doesn’t work for the diversity of network conditions, devices, and rider needs across the country,”
Thus, Uber realised that to expand and increase consumer engagement, they needed to cater to those outside of the master app.
With this, Lits explains that:
“After extensive research with our riders, it was obvious we couldn’t just make a smaller copy of Uber. We needed to reimagine the experience for South Africa and key markets around the world. The result is Uber Lite. A completely redesigned app that is light, simple, and works on any Android device and on any network.”
Hence, Uber Lite was born. Uber lite may save you time and a little bit on your data usage, but the actual ride will cost the same as those called via the traditional Uber app.
In a recent article written by Gabriella Steyn from Independent News, she mentions an emailed response from Uber SA, stating that
“The app may save you space on your phone or useless data but it will not save you any money when requesting a ride”
What are the key features?
Uber Lite boasts key features for their lighter version:
- Light on your phone: Uber Lite is less than 5MB to download, and with 300-millisecond response time (literally the blink of the eye), the booking process is fast even in low connectivity.
- Guided pickups: Uber Lite guides users through the request experience by detecting their current location, so minimal typing is required. If it can’t identify your position because of GPS or network issues, it guides you to choose popular landmarks nearby (which is how most people in South Africa communicate their location).
- Tap over type: Uber Lite makes picking your destination as easy as a tap of a button. Instead of typing where you are, you can choose a nearby point of interest. Additionally, the app stores the city’s top places so that even when you are offline, no network is needed for them to appear. And the more you use Uber Lite, the smarter the app gets. It learns where you go most often, and surfaces those options first. This feature is particularly convenient for people with phones with smaller screens.
- Maps on Demand: To keep the app light and fast, maps in Uber Lite are not loaded by default but are available with a tap when you need them.
Uber Lite preserves the core functionality of the rider app, has in-app support, and includes critical safety features, such as an emergency button that provides emergency services and security response services, and the ability to share your trip with friends and family.
The lighter side of Uber
This lighter version is sure to increase Uber’s appeal in low-cost areas and help not only bring more ride users but Uber drivers in these areas. By simplifying the process and reducing the burden on data Uber makes the service way more attractive for developing markets to adopt.
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