
No frills ‘simple mode' in Uber app to encourage seniors
The online ride-sharing company has just released a setting in their popular app called 'simple mode.'
This mode offers larger icons and text and fewer options in a simplified layout with less features that are usually not be required by older folk.
The modified layout also has a more simplified booking flow and makes it easier to access favourite locations. The ride-share app has added a simplified layout with less features. Credit: Supplied
It comes as a study found one in three older Australians find it difficult to organise their own travel.
'Many older Australians have a smartphone these days, but figuring out how to use something new for the first time can still be a challenge,' Uber Australia and New Zealand managing director Emma Foley told the Australian Associated Press.
'Simple mode is for independent seniors who are happy to be out on their own but want to have a simpler way to book a ride.'
Uber have also included seniors in their family members' option, where family members and friends can book trips for those they care about.
'The classic use case for this might be someone who is caring for their elderly mum and can't be there to take them to a doctor's appointment but wants to book a ride for them, track that trip, call the driver directly... and make it really simple to keep an eye on their loved one,' Ms Foley said.
App-based ride shares have become significantly more popular than taxis in recent years, with a Roy Morgan study undertaken showing more than 7.4 million people used an app such as uber compared to 4.2 million people who preferred taxis.

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