You know how people went from cable to streaming to save money, only to watch streaming become more and more like cable? Well, the taxi-to-rideshare swap might become just as pointless.
Uber has started “testing” a new form of payment: CASH. (???)
They’ve been introducing it in select cities over the past few weeks, and it just hit some bigger markets, including L.A., San Diego, Dallas, and Orlando.
Uber says the idea is to expand transportation access to everyone, and not everyone has a bank account or credit card. And some riders just prefer cash.
You STILL need a cell phone though, or a way to book through the app. Basically, you book a ride as usual, and you select the “cash” option for payment. Then, you hand over the bills and coins when you get to the destination.
It’s also optional for drivers. They have a setting on their end that can be set to accept cash or not. Although some drivers say the feature was abruptly added to their accounts without warning, and “ACCEPTS CASH” was the default. It’s optional, so it’s not a huge deal, but some drivers are upset.
The main one is that they’re worried this might create a safety concern, because now, they could be targeted if thieves think they’re carrying cash.
There are also issues with handling cash, like: Customers expecting change if they overpay, awkwardness with tips, getting Uber its cut of the fare when they’re paid in cash, and dealing with people who skip out on a fare.
Uber may even be expecting some of these issues, because they’re not allowing cash payments after 11:00 P.M.
(Here’s a driver complaining about it.)
@tiomayo Opened my Uber app in Miami to find that CASH TRIPS are active! Not sure if this is a good idea. What do you think? ##uber##miami##ubercash ♬ original sound – Tio Mayo
My problem with this is just principle. Like the “cord-cutting” thing, ridesharing attracted riders by promising a hassle-free digital experience, with fair rates for riders, fair compensation for drivers, and NO TIPS. And SURPRISE! It’s becoming the taxi industry all over again.
(Los Angeles Times / Daily Dot / Uber)
