Zift Advisory
A ride-share app that is known for being quick, simple, and affordable, Uber allows users to instantly connect with drivers and travel to any destination they wish. It can be downloaded for free in iTunes and Google Play but does offer in-app purchases. It is appropriate for users aged 18 and older.
What is Uber - Request a ride?
Uber is a ride-share app that allows users to instantly connect with drivers in order to travel to whatever final destination they would like. It can be downloaded for free from both iTunes and Google Play, but users must make in-app purchases in order to book a ride. Due to its interactive nature, it should only be used by individuals aged 18 and up.
Once the app is downloaded, users will be prompted to create an account with their personal information, such as name and payment details. After this is completed and verified, they will then be able to start connecting with drivers whenever they need a ride.
When booking a ride through the Uber app, users can choose from several different vehicles, such as a regular private ride, called an UberX, a ride that is shared amongst users traveling to similar destinations, known as an UberPool, and a vehicle that fits more than 4 people, known as an UberXL.
Users can either manually input their pickup location, or rely on their phone’s GPS to track where they are. Once a user has been connected with a driver, they can see the driver on a map in order to determine how far away they are. They also will be provided with important information, such as the driver’s name, the make and model of the vehicule, and the vehicle's license plate number.
Similar to the Lyft app, after a ride is completed, both the user and driver will be able to rate each other out of 5 stars.
The app has been downloaded over 5 million times and generally receives positive reviews. However, some users have stated that they have problems with updating their personal information through the app, as well as difficulties with their phone’s GPS.
Is Uber - Request a ride safe for my kids?
The Uber app is rated for ages 4 and older in iTunes and "E" for everyone in Google Play, but Uber's terms of service state that users must be 18 years or older to use their service. This app is not recommended for kids but can be safe for older, mature teens with parental supervision and expectations in place.
While the app does not contain any mature themes, it does put users in contact with strangers, making it most appropriate for individuals aged 18 and up.
Parents should know that whenever a user requests a ride through Uber, they will meet a minimum of 1 stranger. If they opt to use an UberPool, this number can be more. Although it is possible to report any complaints or inappropriate conduct through the app, this does not take away from the fact that users can be alone in a vehicle with potential predators for a substantial amount of time.
It is important to note that the app requires a substantial amount of users’ personal information, such as access to their location, phone contacts, camera, phone data, and payment details. Many parents may not be comfortable with an app-developer having this much access to their child’s personal information.
While Uber does have firsthand access to all of this personal information, the drivers do not. Beyond users’ initial and final locations, drivers have no access to any additional details, such as their last names, phone numbers, or credit card numbers.
Finally, Uber requires users to make in-app purchases, and many parents may not wish for their child to be able to spend money without their consent. If this is the case, simply prevent your child from having their own personal Uber account.
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