Uber Driver App Finally Hits Android
When Uber originally announced that they were releasing the driver app for iPhones only, many asked when they were going to be making the application for Android. Many drivers were not sure why they continued to develop the application on iOS if they had the intention to let drivers use their own phone. The Q2 IDC market share data shows that Android had a 84% market share, with iOS at 11%, above a 7:1 advantage. Why even bother developing for iOS? (To answer that question, despite the large market share lead, the average spend of iOS users is higher on apps, games, etc.)
When Uber released the driver app for personal iPhones, they already had a link in the announcement and subsequent emails to gauge driver interest in the Android version, which shows they knew many drivers had Android phones. Based on the IDC statistics, I would expect the majority of Uber Drivers to have an Android device, or at least know someone who does.
This announcement is a double edge sword. From driver reports, the beta application is available in:
- Boston
- San Diego
- Atlanta
[Update: Here is the link from Uber to get the Android app on the Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ubercab.driver]
Here was the email I received earlier today:
Hi!
Over the past month we have helped thousands of Uber driver-partners transition from Uber-provided devices to their personal iPhones. Throughout the process, partners asked for an app for the Android operating system. We heard your feedback, and today we’re excited to announce that Boston will be one of the first cities to beta test the driver app for Android!
BETA TESTING THE ANDROID APP
We are inviting you to take part in a trial for the new app. Because of the diversity of Android devices available on the market, it is difficult to forecast performance on every device out there. We want to be clear that if you experience difficulty with your device, we may need to transition you back to an Uber iPhone in order to ensure you stay on the road.
As was the case for our Apple users, by using your own phone and returning your Uber phone, you will no longer be charged the $10/week mobile data subscription fee. Any deposit on the Uber phone will be refunded if the phone is returned in good, working condition.
REQUIREMENTS
Right now, in order to be eligible, you must:
- Have the Android operating system
- Have a data plan that allows you to use at least 2GB/month of data for Uber
- Any major phone carrier (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint) will work
- Have a Google Play account
Have you received an email about the Uber Android Driver app being available in your market? Do you have an Android device? Would you be giving in your iPhone when the Android Uber Driver app comes out in your market?
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I want to download the uber driver app for my droid T mobile phone. I live in Dallas,TX. Do you know if it is possible?
FWIW, I’m a driver and Richmond and I downloaded the beta from the link above. I was able to log in on my Android, haven’t tested it further than that. I checked on the rider app and it shows my car…appears to work 🙂
I work in Chicago, downloaded the Android Uber Driver App today, and it worked rather flawlessly on my Sunday night shift. And it defaults to Google Maps(Scout or Wayze if you prefer) for navigation, which made for more punctual arrivals and overall accuracy. I hope to return my Uber iPhone soon to avoid the weekly $10.00 data fee. It’s not officially available in Chicago (no email alerting Uber Partners), but so far the beta Android version is resplendent!
How did you download the app on your android
It is in the post. See above.
Great news, I downloaded the app, tried to sign in to my uber’s account, it went through flawlessly.
I can confirm that this app is awesome!! From SF, worked from 5PM – 10PM with absolutely no problems. The receptionists at the front desk said something about not being tagged properly and not getting as many hits, but that didn’t seem the case.
This App Works awesome in galaxy s5..I started using it in NEW JERSEY…I drove like 4 days and it was aswome
Glad to hear!
I’ve been using this in Los Angeles. It works great too! Thanks for posting this. Although I had to set it up on an iPhone first, I’ve been able to use it on my Android after the initial set-up.
Downloaded the app last night and used it in NJ. Worked fine though sound wasn’t coming through at all. Might have been my fault. Will work it more this week.
Did you ever get the sound working? MIne went from working (3.8.0) to not working (3.9.0)
Works for me too but if i leave the app screen i will lose calls.
I just downloaded 11/10 on my galaxy s5 and logged on in my partner account in des moines iowa. I took a trip, but not able to communicate with passneger, due to phone number attached to original iphone. Emailing support to see if they can change so I can use my s5.