Uber trials women-only rides in U.S. to address safety worries
Uber Launches Pilot for Women-Only Ride Matching in Select US Cities
Uber is taking a significant step forward in addressing safety concerns within its ride-hailing platform by launching a new pilot program that allows women drivers and riders to request same-gender matches. This initiative, set to begin in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Detroit, aims to enhance the experience for female users and improve overall trust in the service.
The feature enables women to adjust their app settings to prioritize matching with other women. While this preference is not guaranteed, Uber claims it significantly increases the chances of women being paired with same-gender riders or drivers during trips. This move comes as part of a broader effort to make the platform more inclusive and secure for all users, particularly women who have long expressed concerns about safety.
A Global Initiative with Local Impact
This pilot program builds on Uber’s existing global efforts to introduce gender-based preferences. The company first launched a similar tool in Saudi Arabia in 2019, following the country's decision to allow women to drive. The success of that initiative led to the expansion of the feature to over 40 countries, including France, Germany, and Argentina.
In the United States, the introduction of the feature follows direct feedback from female drivers who wanted more control over their rides. Uber has since updated its app to reflect these preferences, allowing women to choose whether they want to drive only women or accept riders of any gender. Riders can also pre-book rides with a gender preference, adding an extra layer of convenience and reassurance.
Competitors Also Enhancing Safety Features
Uber is not alone in its efforts to improve safety for women. Rival company Lyft introduced a “Women+ Connect” feature in late 2023, which matches women and nonbinary riders and drivers. This feature reflects a growing trend in the ride-hailing industry to address gender-based safety risks through app design and user preferences.
Safety remains a top concern for both companies. According to a 2015 internal survey, only 20% of Uber’s US driver base was made up of women. Many cited safety concerns as a major barrier to joining or continuing to use the platform, especially during late hours.
Broader Safety Upgrades Underway
The gender preference tool is just one of several recent safety upgrades Uber has implemented. The company has rolled out features such as teen-specific accounts, rider PIN verification, and live trip tracking to help build user trust and reduce the risk of misconduct.
Uber clarified that while rider preferences may not always be fulfilled due to availability and logistical constraints, the app will prioritize same-gender matches when possible. The feature is entirely optional and does not impact users who choose not to activate it.
Monitoring Feedback for Future Expansion
As the pilot begins in three US cities, Uber will closely monitor feedback from drivers and riders to assess the effectiveness of the feature. The company plans to use this data to determine whether the tool should be expanded to additional regions.
With ongoing concerns about safety and inclusivity, Uber’s latest move highlights its commitment to creating a more secure and welcoming environment for all users. As the ride-hailing industry continues to evolve, the focus on gender-based safety features is likely to remain a key priority for both Uber and its competitors.