A New Safety Layer for Drivers
Uber has begun testing in-app video recording in India, marking its biggest safety upgrade since audio recording arrived in 2023, as per a Tech Crunch report. The pilot started in May and has quietly expanded across 10 major cities. Drivers say the tool may help them during rider disputes, which often lead to warnings or temporary suspensions.
Why Uber Is Adding Video
Many drivers in India do not use dashcams. As a result, they struggle to prove their side when misunderstandings occur. Several Delhi–NCR drivers said riders sometimes issue false complaints. These claims can put their accounts at risk and create daily stress on the road. Now, the video tool adds an extra layer of protection. It allows drivers to capture evidence when they feel unsafe or threatened. It also aims to discourage misconduct during rides.
How the Recording Works
The feature activates only when the driver chooses to use it. Riders see an in-trip alert when recording starts. This makes the process transparent and reduces confusion during the ride. Uber said all recordings stay on the driver’s phone. They are double-encrypted and remain inaccessible to Uber unless the driver shares them in a safety report. The files delete automatically after seven days if unused.
Cities Included in the Pilot
The pilot now runs in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Lucknow. Uber said the rollout will continue in phases as it collects more data from drivers and riders.
Built on Uber’s Existing Safety Tools
The new feature builds on Uber’s in-app audio recording, which launched in India last year. Uber has also tested video recording in markets like the U.S., Canada, and Brazil.
Although widely adopted elsewhere, video tools often raise questions about privacy and storage. Uber said its design keeps recordings local to the device, offering more control to both drivers and riders.
What Comes Next
Uber has not confirmed a full India rollout timeline. The next few months will help the company understand how well the feature works in India’s unique conditions. The test results may also shape future launches in other regions.
