Uber has announced new features aimed at enhancing the experience of its over 7 million monthly drivers and couriers worldwide. With users engaging with the app for hours rather than minutes, these updates focus on improving safety, fairness, and ease of use.

A key addition is the Enhanced Rider Verification system, which allows drivers to see a “Verified” badge on rider profiles, indicating extra verification steps have been completed. This feature has shown that verified riders receive higher ratings and generate fewer complaints. Additionally, the Record My Ride feature is expanding nationwide, enabling drivers to record audio and video during trips for added safety, with recordings encrypted and stored locally.

“We’re stepping up our efforts to encourage better behavior from riders, restaurants, and customers.” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said.

To foster respectful interactions, drivers can now report rude behavior from riders, prompting automated warnings sent to those riders. A new pilot feature will also allow drivers to block riders rated 2 or 3 stars. To enhance transparency, the app will soon show drivers where their earnings go.

The redesigned Uber Driver app will offer a more streamlined experience, featuring a revamped home screen for easier navigation and access to earnings. The in-app Work Hub has been updated to simplify signing up for new opportunities, such as grocery orders and alcohol deliveries.

Additional navigation tools will help drivers by considering future traffic patterns and guiding them toward main roads for pickups. Customers will also be asked to provide photos of their locations to facilitate deliveries.