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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