Uber has announced a new initiative to enhance safety features for its riders, especially focusing on the safety of women. The company revealed that 53% of women feel unsafe at night, even when walking alone within a mile from their home. In response to this concerning statistic, Uber is introducing safety preferences to empower riders to maximize the in-app safety features.

The company expressed its commitment to creating a safer environment for all individuals, with a particular emphasis on women's safety. According to Uber, prioritizing safety for women ultimately contributes to a safer experience for everyone using the platform.

The new safety preferences feature will allow riders to customize their safety settings based on their preferences and needs, offering peace of mind, especially during nighttime trips. Riders can select up to four safety features to automatically activate based on specific times or locations, such as trips after 9 pm or when leaving a bar or restaurant.

Among the safety features that riders can customize are RideCheck, PIN verification, Audio Recording, and Share My Trip. These features are designed to enhance security and provide reassurance to riders throughout their journey.

Uber's RideCheck feature enables the detection of any deviations in the trip route, unexpected stops, or early trip endings, prompting an in-app check-in to ensure the rider's well-being. Additionally, riders can opt for PIN verification to confirm they are entering the correct vehicle before the trip commences.

The Audio Recording option allows riders to record audio during a trip, with the recordings being encrypted and securely stored on the rider's device. These recordings remain private unless the rider chooses to share them with Uber in the event of a safety incident.

Moreover, riders can utilize the Share My Trip feature to automatically share their live location and trip details with a chosen friend or family member, adding an extra layer of security and accountability.

The safety preferences feature is now available in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America, with plans to expand to more countries in the near future. Uber encourages riders to explore these enhanced safety options and learn more about safety measures on the platform to ensure a secure and comfortable ride experience.