How Uber could read my mind
I recently returned from a business trip in the Philippines, Hong Kong and Singapore.
I was amazed how people are in love with Uber and how it changed their daily habits.
In Manila, the people I met with came smiling to our meetings and one of the first things they said was that they’ve just used Uber.
(They actually use uberX and call it Uber)
Why were they so happy?
- A new transportation option — without uberX they wouldn’t consider using a taxi
- Quality — far better than local taxis at a fair price
- Most importantly: Usability — Uber is a click away anywhere in the city at any time
That’s why it’s great- it’s a whole new offering
In Hong Kong, I used Google Maps to navigate my way by train and foot and whenever needed, Google suggested completing the trip with Uber in a click.
I also found out I could get a chopper! I would definitely get one on my next family trip (although it seems to be taken off the service in Hong Kong).
All these services didn’t exist before Uber and now they’re in the palm of my hand.
Why “read my mind”?
- Thoughts on how to increase user engagement of existing Uber services, and
- Suggest brand new services for Uber users
How
- Connect Uber app to users’ daily routine without abusing their attention and time
- Usability- one click away operations
- New services leveraging Uber assets: transportation, location, zero touch online relationship, payment and big data
Here we go with the following six stories:
1. Coming out of a Meeting
How
Uber app local analytics on accelerometer, environment light brightness, GPS and/or calendar events.
Native app runs on the background and easily identifies I’m out.
No hassle if I’m not interesred
React to “ub — ub” by placing finger on screen and dragging to desired action
2. 7:30PM- Get into my Cozy Flat
How
Uber app local analytics and Uber big data analytics on history, GPS, accelerometer, environment light brightness and/or time.
Native app runs on the background with cloud bid data and easily identifies I’m back.
3. With my Friends
Uber knows by analyzing the location, previous joint activities and social connections of myself and my friends.
Whatever I need while I go out with my friends and can’t do today in a click
4. 4PM with my Boss or Morning Waking Up
I have an upcoming appointment on my phone calendar
I am far away from my meeting location
It’s time to commute
Suggest ub — ub
5. Driving my Car
Uber identifies I need some help:
- Driving my car (GPS)
- Stop in the middle of the road (GPS and clock)
- Go out of the car (accelerometer)
6. Landing in Orlando
App background analytics identify long distance was made at flight speed.
Identify new location and suggest the available local services by Uber:
- Uber
- Whole day car service
- Gear I may need in my trip: power adapter, projector, etc.
- And more
This post is a brain dump of ideas. Uber becomes an integral part of our daily life, it empowers doing many new things previously not available or accessible in palm of hand.
