Man Claims Uber Charges Apple iPhone Users More Than Android Users. Here's What The Company Has To Say

As per screenshots shared on social media, Android users were asked by Uber to pay Rs 290.79, while iOS users were asked to pay Rs 342.47.

A screenshot shared on social media showed the disparity in prices between Android and iOS handsets.

Source : X/@seriousfunnyguy

A recent social media post has ignited a debate over whether Uber charges higher fares for iPhone users compared to Android users. The claim stems from a photo showing two phones displaying different rates for an identical route. While the Android device showed a fare of Rs 290.79, the iPhone listed Rs 342.47 for the same trip.

The post, shared by a user named Sudhir, questioned the disparity. Here's what he posted:

Same pickup point, destination & time but 2 different phones get 2 different rates. It happens with me as I always get higher rates on my Uber as compared to my daughter’s phone. So most of the time, I request her to book my Uber. Does this happen with you also? What is the hack? pic.twitter.com/bFqMT0zZpW

— SUDHIR (@seriousfunnyguy) December 23, 2024

This observation resonated with others, who chimed in with their experiences. “Yes that happens with me too…sometimes the difference is not much but it can even be more than ₹30-50 …trust technology to play with your wallet,” one user noted. Others offered lighthearted explanations, with one commenter joking, “Uber knows , you hardly give here pocket money. So Uber is kind to your daughter”

The original image was reportedly shared on LinkedIn by entrepreneur Niraali Parekh, and Sudhir clarified that he reposted it to highlight the issue.

What Did Uber Say?

As reported by Mint, Uber addressed the allegations, clarifying that pricing differences are not influenced by the type of phone used. “Multiple differences in these two rides impact the prices. The pick-up point, ETA, and drop-off point on these requests vary, which will cause different fares. Uber does not personalise trip pricing based on a rider’s cell phone manufacturer,” the ride-hailing app said.

iPhone Vs. Android: Spending Trends

Studies reveal a pattern in consumer behaviour where iPhone users tend to spend more on apps, subscriptions, and premium services compared to Android users. According to Sci-Tech Today, iPhone users shell out an average of $12.77 (Rs 1,087) per app, while Android users spend $6.19 (Rs 527). In-app purchases also skew higher for iPhones at $1.07 (Rs 91), compared to $0.43 (Rs 36) for Android devices.

This trend has led to speculation that companies may set higher prices for iOS users, though such practices remain controversial.