Have you ever wondered what it’s like to become an Uber driver? It’s not a very magical transformation, but there’s a hiring process involved and they send out a pretty cool care package as well. Well, we were able to get a hold of an Uber driver starter kit and thought it would be neat to share the experience…
In case you’re not familiar with Uber, it’s a ride sharing or alternative taxi service available in many different locations around the world. With Uber, all you need to do is download the app and request a ride based on your location. I’ve used Uber countless times while traveling and the experience has been great.
Like I mentioned, we were able to get a hold of Uber’s driver kit and thought it would be interesting to take a look at. When you get hired as an Uber driver, there are a few tools you’ll need to make the job easier and thankfully, the company has got you covered.
Check out the video below for a closer look:
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAbeRT4CXP4]
First off, the packaging is surprisingly great. The presentation made it feel like I was unboxing a high-end product. Very Apple-esque. The first thing you’ll find is an “Uber Driver Guide” which will get you up to speed on using the “Driver” app and best practices when picking up customers.
Next up, you’ll get an iPhone. In this box, we were presented with a 16GB iPhone 4s, but it may differ for everyone. Uber also left a small welcome card next to the iPhone. In some areas, Uber includes a “driver light” that can be stuck to a car window, but due to laws and restrictions in certain areas, this package didn’t come with one.
Finally, you’ll find a small accessory kit. It’s nothing special, but inside of the kit you get an auxiliary cable, dual-USB car adapter, 6 ft. 30-pin to USB cable, and even a dash/windshield mount for the iPhone 4s.
Speaking of the iPhone, that thing is locked down. Uber is using special profiles to disable most of the iPhone’s features, but you are left with a handful of stock iOS apps. Unfortunately, you won’t find the App Store, iTunes, or Safari as they have been hidden and restricted. Also, even though the Phone and Messages apps are available, they aren’t functional. I’d assume that these restrictions are in place because Uber wants its drivers to do their job, instead of play around on the phone.
The only app you’ll actually need on this phone is called, “Uber Driver.” This is the app that you will use to conduct all driver business with Uber. Once signed in and “live,” you will be able to accept rides as they are requested from customers through the driver app.
Overall, there’s nothing magical or amazing here, but this isn’t something you see every day and we thought it would be interesting to share. If you’d like to find out more about Uber, you can visit the company’s website or download the app available for free on the App Store. Currently, Uber is giving out $30 in credit for new customers, find out more details here.
