Uber initiated a phased pilot program in May for in-app video recording for drivers in 10 Indian cities, aiming to deter misconduct and provide evidence in disputes.
The feature, confirmed to TechCrunch by Uber, is currently live in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Jaipur, and Lucknow. Drivers in the Delhi-NCR region have reported instances of misconduct from riders, including threats of false complaints, which can result in penalties or account suspensions.
One driver, who spoke anonymously, stated, “Even female passengers traveling late at night insist that we follow the route they want instead of what’s shown on the map. If we refuse, they threaten to file false complaints.” Drivers believe the in-app video recording feature could offer protection by supplying evidence in such situations. Some drivers expressed uncertainty regarding Uber’s support in rider-related disputes, citing passenger importance to the platform.
When video recording is active, riders receive an in-trip notification. An Uber spokesperson detailed that “All recordings are double-encrypted, stored on the device, and cannot be accessed by anyone — including Uber — unless a user chooses to share them as part of a safety report.” Recordings are automatically deleted after one week if not shared.
This video tool enhances Uber’s existing in-app audio recording feature, which launched in India in 2023. Video recording was initially tested in the U.S. in 2022 and is available in Canada and Brazil. The pilot’s performance will likely determine any broader rollout of the video recording tool in India or other regions.
