Uber Now Allowing Riders In Delhi-NCR Call For Cabs Via WhatsApp, But Not For All Users: How To Book

Uber will only allow users who have registered only with a mobile number to book a cab, for now.

Uber may take several minutes to respond on WhatsApp.

Source : Uber

Uber, the popular cab aggregator, is now allowing riders to book a cab via WhatsApp. Only rolling out in Delhi-NCR this week, the new feature will save passengers the trouble of downloading the Uber app, registering first, and then being able to book a cab, auto, or bike. Uber said that it recognises that to keep expanding its services, the platform needs to meet users where they are. “In India, that means WhatsApp,” Uber said in a press release. “Starting this week, we are rolling out an exciting new service that gives people of Delhi NCR the option to book an Uber ride via our official chatbot on WhatsApp,” the company said. However, there is a specific caveat in place — more on that later.

The Uber-WhatsApp integrator was first rolled out in Lucknow back in December 2021. The chatbot can be used in both English and Hindi seamlessly, whichever the rider is more comfortable in. The WhatsApp chatbot will also share ride receipts with users after a trip is completed. 

How to book an Uber ride via WhatsApp

Follow these simple steps:

1. Send Hi on WhatsApp to Uber’s official business number: +91-7292000002. You can also click here to directly access the Uber chatbot on WhatsApp. Note that this feature will only work on the mobile version of WhatsApp for now.
2. Select a language: English or Hindi.
3. The chatbot will now ask you to share your pickup location and share with you the location options available based on what you send. You can also choose to share your current location via WhatsApp.
4. Now, you will have to enter your drop location in a similar process. 
5. You will have to enter an OTP sent to your registered mobile number.
6. Once OTP is verified, you can select the type of ride you want. 
7. Finally, you will be given an option to edit any details, confirm or cancel the ride.
8. After you confirm, the driver and vehicle details will be shared with you.

Note for emergencies: During a ride, you can send Help for emergency services.

Uber-WhatsApp is not for everyone, yet

For now, the WhatsApp booking feature is only available to new and existing Uber users who have registered only with a phone number. So, if you had registered with an email and a password, you’re out of luck,

It should also not be noted that it takes several minutes for Uber to respond on WhatsApp, ABP Live could independently verify. For now, the Uber app seems to be the fastest way to book a ride. 

This is expected as the WhatsApp-booking service is just recently launched. “Future product iterations of WA2R will allow existing users of the Uber app to also book trips through WhatsApp,” Uber assured.

For those interested, booking via WhatsApp will result in no changes in the drivers’ experiences on Uber’s platform.