Uber’s ride-sharing service UberPool is receiving behind-the-scenes updates today so that it’s smarter for all users. However, the only limitation here is that these updates are only going to impact UberPool users in Manhattan, New York. That being said, Manhattan is probably one of the busiest markets for UberPool, so it makes sense for the company to start things out from here.
The UberPool experience was changed slightly last year to allow for quicker pickup times, users just to walk to the corner for the pickup. Uber says that after seeing that a short walk could save people both time and money, it started working on how to pick up people and get them to their destinations even faster.
It has been refining its algorithms since then to create a more flexible, affordable carpooling product that’s tailor-made for Manhattan. UberPool is now going to automatically choose the best nearby corner for a rider to walk to. It will now choose a corner that’s past the light on the right-hand side. This will enable drivers to pick up multiple riders along the way without having to change lanes.
The algorithm has further been improved to cut down the number of turns for each mile driven by 20 percent. This is going to make the ride more efficient for users and minimize stress for drivers. The algorithm will strive to match drivers effectively so that they don’t have to take detours and can stay on avenues for the most direct routes.
Dynamic drop-offs will recalculate the best drop-off spot every few seconds when users are nearing their destination. This will keep the carpooling system “moving” for everyone in the car and also help keep the route as direct as possible for co-riders.
All of these updates will make for a better UberPool experience in Manhattan, users in that part of the city can experience these updates starting today.
Filed in . Read more about Uber. Source: newsroom.uber