Uber
today announced the roll-out of an intelligent new safety feature,
Real-Time ID check in yet another innovation on its technology to
improve safety for drivers and riders using the app.
With
the new feature, drivers are periodically prompted to share a selfie
before going online, Uber then compares this photo to the one
corresponding to the account on file to validate the driver before they
start driving.
Speaking while introducing the new feature, Loic Amado, General Manager of Uber in East Africa said, “We’re
constantly developing and testing new solutions to enhance security for
both drivers and riders. Real-time ID check is the result of
comprehensive research and testing, and the example of proactive
technology that solves potential challenges before they occur. The check
protects drivers driving with Uber from fraud, theft and risks to their
account being compromised. It also assures riders that when they are
picked up, the right person is behind the wheel.”
Real-Time
ID works by prompting drivers using the app to share a selfie from time
to time before going online. This verification is achieved through
advanced facial recognition technology and takes place within a few
seconds. If the two images don’t match, the account is temporarily
blocked while Uber looks into the situation. This helps Uber to ensure
in real time that the driver using the app matches the account it has on
file.
“The
innovation behind Real-Time ID started with experimentation with voice,
facial and gesture recognition. However, the simple action of taking a
selfie is a language that people all over the world understand. We can
now ensure that only the registered driver can use and benefit from our
application,” added Mr. Amado.
Currently,
this feature is being rolled-out to drivers in Kenya in phases so not
all drivers will see this feature right away. The average verification
time is just a few seconds. This
new development is part of Uber’s ongoing commitment to creating
simple, intuitive technology that not only makes the lives of riders and
drivers easier, but keeps everyone safe at every step of their Uber
journey.
“Technology
is a powerful tool that can improve safety and security in ways not
possible before. Riders can feel safe knowing that their driver has been
verified and drivers using the app can rest assured that a fraudster is
not using their account.” concluded Mr. Amado.
Alongside
Kenya, Real-Time ID has also been rolled out in South Africa, Nigeria
and Ghana this follows a global roll out that was launched in the US.
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