Uber, the global smartphone app that seamlessly connects riders with partner drivers, is launching Uber Lite, a redesigned, simplified version of the Uber app in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Uber Lite is being launched across the region to give consumers the opportunity to book a ride irrespective of the quality of their network connection.
At less than 5MB download size and available in both English and Arabic, Uber Lite enables those with basic smartphones operating in spotty network conditions to book a ride and start their journey - all in a matter of seconds. Not only does the lighter version of the app reduce data consumption, it does so without sacrificing on any of its main functionalities. In fact, some of its features work even when the app is not connected to the internet.
Uber Lite makes picking your destination as easy as a tap of a button. Instead of typing where you are, you can choose a nearby point of interest. Additionally, the app stores the city’s top places so that even when you are offline, no network is needed for them to appear. And, with a 300-millisecond response time (literally the blink of the eye), the booking process is fast even in low connectivity.
This was made possible as Uber believes in connecting millions to reliable transport at a push of a button. Uber Lite was specifically developed to cut down on mobile data consumption, as well as work in areas with limited network connectivity.
Tino Abdellatif Waked, General Manager, Middle East and North Africa for Uber, “Uber is all about providing reliable transport solutions to our riders, and it stands to reason that the quality of the network connection should not pose a hurdle to achieving that goal. With Uber Lite it’s possible to book a ride even in low connectivity areas and the data usage while doing so is also limited. We have made the app easier and more convenient, but without compromising on any of the Uber’s hallmark features.”
Uber Lite keeps the core functionality of the rider app, and has many of its existing features like the ability to share your trip with friends and family and driver and vehicle details. The app will go live in the UAE and Saudi on March 18, and has already been launched in Pakistan, Qatar, Lebanon, Bahrain and Tanzania.
Uber Lite key product features:
• Light on your phone: Uber Lite is less than 5MB to download (that’s equivalent to just 3 selfies). A smaller app frees up space for actual selfies and other apps. And, with a 300-millisecond response time (literally the blink of the eye), the booking process is fast even in low connectivity.
• Guided Pickups: Uber Lite guides users through the request experience by detecting their current location, so minimal typing is required. If it can’t detect your location because of GPS or network issues, it guides you to choose popular landmarks nearby such as the Old State House (which is how most people in Tanzania communicate their location).
• Tap Over Type: Uber Lite makes picking your destination as easy as a tap of a button. Instead of typing where you are, you can choose a nearby point of interest. Additionally, the app stores the city’s top places so that even when you are offline, no network is needed for them to appear. And the more you use Uber Lite, the smarter the app gets. It learns where you go most often, and surfaces those options first. This feature is particularly convenient for people with phones with smaller screens.
• Maps On Demand: To keep the app light and fast, maps in Uber Lite are not loaded by default but are available with a tap when you need them.
Uber Lite retains the core functionality of the rider app, has in-app support and includes critical safety features, such as Trusted Contacts; a feature that allows riders to share their trips with about five friends and family and driver profiles, allowing riders to identify their driver and their vehicles before they get in.
