Uber has given its app a major redesign for the first time in a long while, and the new version reflects the massively expanded range of services in recent years. The updated Android and iOS apps center around a new home screen that puts ridesharing and Uber Eats deliveries in one place, with fewer steps needed to book trips or order food. There’s also a dedicated tab for all the services available in your city, so you won’t have to wonder which options are available.
The revamp promises more personalization as well. Tap the usual “where to?” button and you’ll now see both saved locations as well as recommendations for destinations and ride types based on your habits. If you normally reserve rides instead of booking on the spot, you may see other scheduled options. An activity hub shows all your past and future Uber uses.
The upgrade also brings some long-expected Live Activities features to iPhone users. Anyone using iOS 16 can now see live ride progress on their phone’s lock screen. And if you happen to have an iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max, you’ll see those ride updates around the Dynamic Island (read: front camera cutout) while the device is unlocked. You won’t have to wait for notifications to know when it’s time to head out the door.
The app is available today. Uber tells Engadget the Eats app “isn’t going anywhere,” and that the iPhone-specific upgrades will reach that software in the “coming months.” The unified experience in the main app isn’t exactly a shock, though. Uber now handles bikes, scooters, package deliveries, groceries and many other services beyond basic car hailing and restaurant orders. The app redesign might help you discover offerings you didn’t realize were available, or encourage you to try features that previously felt like too much of a hassle.
A rework like this might be necessary. While Uber touted higher bookings and profit margins in 2022, its delivery business grew just six percent over the year. The harmonized app isn’t guaranteed to improve Uber’s bottom line, but it might encourage delivery orders from customers who otherwise wouldn’t have tried a feature like Eats.