Uber testing Ola-like OTP verification before starting rides: Report

Uber is testing a new feature that involves a four-digit code that the customer has to provide to the driver to begin the ride, Hindustan Times reports.

The feature is similar to its rival aggregator Ola's One-Time Password (OTP) system, wherein riders receive a code that they are supposed to share with their respective cab driver before the trip starts.

According to the report, the four-digit code has been appearing randomly for some riders. But unlike in the case of Ola where the code is sent to users on the app as well as in their SMS box, Uber riders have been receiving the code only within the Uber app.

The report said the feature has not been introduced fully yet and is probably part of some ongoing beta testing.

The feature is expected to deal with one of Uber riders' major concerns- when the cab driver begins the ride without actually arriving at the set location or without the rider having boarded.

This follows Uber's recent introduction of a set of safety features in India. These include a 24x7 'safety helpline', an emergency button, ride-sharing and real-time location tracking options.