Rider and driver safety has always been of paramount importance at Uber. Uber has been searching for ways to improve ride safety and identified video streaming as a potential solution. However, this presented its own unique set of technical challenges. Enter our strategic partners, Grip Mobility and a concept that would later become ‘Sentinel’.
As for now, Uber went forward with testing its video recording tool in several cities across Brazil and its media channels are all talking about it. The company started the test roll-out in smaller cities, allowing them to monitor results closely. Now, they will measure acceptance of the feature in larger, more developed areas like Sao Paulo.
Drivers will now be able to record the entire trip through their cell phone and this foot- age will be available to resolve any disputes or legal issues. Beyond that, the hope is that the knowledge of Sentinel’s presence in the vehicle should prevent many unpleas- ant situations from arising in the first place.
Uber will begin testing in the city of Sao Paulo this week. The preliminary results for cities that have already been through testing are yet to be announced but public response so far has been overwhelmingly positive.
