Uber is testing its own version of TaskRabbit called Uber Tasks in select markets, as first reported by Bloomberg Monday. The service will allow users to hire people to perform household chores, extending d beyond ridesharing and food delivery currently supported on the platform.
“This small pilot is the newest way for drivers and couriers to put their skills to work and earn money on their own schedule,” The Uber spokesperson said, “We’re always thinking about how to give people more ways to earn money with Uber.”
The feature is expected to launch in Fort Myers, Florida and Edmonton, Alberta, Canada in the coming weeks. Uber drivers in participating cities will be able to participate in the program, allowing them to help customers with small home projects, furniture assembly, lawn mowing and snow removal. and more. Uber tested another product in Canada back in 2015 when the company conducted its first Uber Eats trial in Toronto.
The new feature comes more directly on the heels of the TaskRabbit business, which was acquired by IKEA in 2017 after raising $38 million in funding. Uber presents a considerable threat to TaskRabbit if the platform launches globally due to its sheer size. The company has more than six million drivers and couriers worldwide, and the platform reached 15 million members worldwide, according to last week’s earnings report.
Uber generated more than $9 billion in revenue in the latest quarter, and while that sounds big, it’s the smallest revenue growth for Uber in for two years. Uber is big but it needs to grow to satisfy its shareholders, and Uber Tasks is exactly the kind of growth it needs. needs. The ridesharing and food delivery markets have become oversaturated, with newer players like Jaranear beating Uber on price.
New safety measures for Uber drivers were also unveiled Monday. The ride-hailing company will expand its passenger verification program, informing drivers if they are accepting a ride with a verified passenger. verified passenger. This feature would no doubt also come in handy with Uber Tasks. “Record My Ride” is another feature for drivers that allows them to record their car using an iPhone’s front-facing camera, and will also come to more cities, Uber says in a blog post.
Safety is a big concern for Uber as it is currently embroiled in a massive lawsuit consolidated with 3,800 riders claiming they were sexually assaulted by its drivers. Victims say the company is not taking adequate precautions to vet its drivers. This safety concern with drivers could be a stumbling block for the company when it comes to Uber tasks.