Ride-hailing platform introduces encrypted in-trip video recording, ambulance assistance and new safety tools for riders and drivers.
Highlights:
- Uber launches industry-first “Record My Ride” feature.
- Ambulance Assistance added through partnership with Dial 4242.
- Drivers blocked from typing while vehicle is moving.
- Riders can now create and mandate their own trip PIN.
- New features strengthen emergency response and privacy protection.
Uber has announced a major upgrade to its safety ecosystem in India by introducing a series of new features aimed at making rides safer for both passengers and drivers. The latest additions include an industry-first Record My Ride feature, Ambulance Assistance, Don’t Type & Drive, and Set Your Own PIN, reinforcing the company’s focus on safety and emergency preparedness.
The biggest highlight is Record My Ride, which allows drivers to use their own smartphones to securely record encrypted in-cab video directly through the Uber app if they feel unsafe during a trip. Uber said the recordings remain fully encrypted and cannot be accessed by either the driver or the company. They are only unlocked if the driver voluntarily submits the footage while reporting a safety incident, ensuring user privacy.
To improve emergency response, Uber has also partnered with medical logistics provider Dial 4242 to introduce Ambulance Assistance. Through Uber’s existing 24×7 Safety Line, riders and drivers involved in an accident can quickly request ambulance support without leaving the platform.
Another new feature, Don’t Type & Drive, is designed to reduce distracted driving. The Uber Driver app will automatically restrict manual typing while the vehicle is moving, encouraging drivers to safely pull over before responding to messages.
Passengers are also getting greater control with Set Your Own PIN, allowing riders to create and manage a personalized trip verification PIN. This adds an extra layer of security by ensuring that the rider boards the correct vehicle before the trip begins.
These additions build on Uber’s existing safety tools, including RideCheck, Audio Recording, Women Rider Preference, Helmet Selfie Verification, Seatbelt Reminders, Phone and Address Anonymisation, and Safety Preferences.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari welcomed the initiative, saying technology can play a vital role in improving road safety and reducing accidents. He also appreciated Uber’s continued support for the government’s Sadak Suraksha Abhiyaan.
According to Sooraj Nair, Head of Safety Operations for Uber India & South Asia, safety innovations should become the industry’s minimum standard rather than a competitive advantage. The company hopes these features will encourage higher safety standards across the ride-hailing industry.
