Uber has always been targeted at people who use smartphones for everything. While there’s a generation of adults who have grown up working solely on a phone or tablet, I’m older and prefer a computer. But since I wanted/needed to use Uber, I learned how to use the iPhone app to order a ride.
I find it interesting – now that Uber is maturing, they realize their business model ignores people who will not use smartphones to arrange a ride. I know it’s hard for some to accept that some people would rather pick up the phone and call for a ride than use an app, but that’s reality. I know people who call the local taxi service for a ride.
To expand, Uber is launching the ability to call for a ride in specific markets.
People in Florida, California, Arizona, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Texas can get an Uber by calling 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237.) The service is currently limited to these markets, but Uber is looking to roll out the service nationwide.
Dial 1-833-USE-UBER (1-833-873-8237) from your cell phone to talk to an Uber team member who will help you create an Uber account and request a ride. You can choose between English and Spanish when requesting a trip.
You will need to call from a cell phone that can receive text messages. Don’t worry, you won’t be charged just for calling us—we’ll charge your credit card on file after a successful trip is completed. To help keep your personal information safe and secure, make sure to only use this phone number when calling to request a ride.
You need to call from a cell phone and have an Uber account. If you don’t have an account, the representative will help you set one up and get your payment information before your 1st ride. Once your account is set up, Uber says you must call from the same phone number each time.
When you call 833-USE-UBER, a representative takes your trip information and gives you the available options and prices. After choosing your ride, you’ll receive a text message including your driver’s name and picture, car type, license plate number, and estimated arrival time.
You’ll receive another text when your driver arrives.
To use the service, you’ll need a cell phone that accepts texts; you can’t call from a landline phone.
The phone service targets people who don’t use Uber because they do not like using smartphone apps. However, I could also see it helpful to call for a ride if you don’t have data service but can make phone calls and receive texts.
Many big tech companies forget a segment of the population isn’t glued to their phone 24/7. I think it’s interesting Uber recognized this underserved market and is trying to find a way to reach them however they can.
The phone service is available 7 days a week, from 4 am – 10 pm EST. The phone number is only for ordering a ride and is not a customer service line. If you need help, visit help.uber.com. And no, the irony of that is not lost on me.
Want to comment on this post? Great! Read this first to help ensure it gets approved.
Want to sponsor a post, write something for Your Mileage May Vary, or put ads on our site? Click here for more info.
Like this post? Please share it! We have plenty more just like it and would love it if you decided to hang around and sign up to get emailed notifications of when we post.
Whether you’ve read our articles before or this is the first time you’re stopping by, we’re really glad you’re here and hope you come back to visit again!
This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
1 comment
I remember when Uber started. You call or text them the address and they send a black car.