It looks like Lyft is following Uber’s footsteps, or should I say tracks, when it comes to the opening up of its API to third party developers. As for one of the first few third party developers to take advantage of this move, it would be Facebook Messenger (which has been given an overhaul for Android users as mentioned earlier today).
We do know that Uber opened up its API to third party developers over one and a half years ago, and announced a partner integration with Facebook Messenger just in December last year. That enabled Messenger users to order or schedule an Uber while informing one’s friends that they are well on their way to a particular destination.
As for the integration of Lyft into Facebook Messenger, it does look as though it will be done in a similar manner, and I suppose the adage of “better late than never” would apply here. In fact, there are plans in the pipeline over at Lyft to transform the company from offering a mere transportation app into a transportation platform, and this integration is just the start.
In fact, Lyft has had experience in doing something similar before, having introduced an integration with CityMapper that is based in London.
Filed in . Read more about Facebook, Facebook Messenger and Lyft. Source: techcrunch