Uber is opening its API to app developers with 11 launch partners integrating the on-demand ride-sharing service on respective apps.
Uber, the popular ride-sharing service, is taking a fresh approach by releasing its API to app developers thereby opening up its taxi service to third party applications. To kick off this new move, Uber has partnered with 11 companies that will integrate a dedicated button for Uber taxi service in their respective apps.
Uber has mainly targeted travel companies and renowned locations for its latest integration. For starters, Uber has shared its API with TripAdvisor that adds a new "ride there with Uber" button on all featured restaurants, attractions and locations in more than 40 cities worldwide. The aim is to bring the convenience of booking a cab with just one tap on a smartphone, without going to Uber app or its mobile website to locate the destination and reserve a ride. TripAdvisor also shows estimated Uber fare and wait time if users choose to visit the place.
"We're excited to partner with Uber to help TripAdvisor travelers conveniently find a ride to their destination in cities throughout the world," Adam Medros, senior vice president of global product at TripAdvisor, said in a press release, Wednesday. "Millions of travelers rely on the TripAdvisor app to help them plan and have the perfect trip during all parts of their journey, and our partnership with the popular technology platform makes our app an even more powerful travel-planning resource."
The new Uber feature in TripAdvisor app is available in English and Italian for iOS and Android versions of the app. The company hopes to add more language support and cities in the future.
In addition to TripAdvisor, Uber has also partnered with TripCase, United Airlines, Hyatt Hotels & Resorts, Starbucks, Expensify, Hinge, Momento, OpenTable, Tempo and Time Out.
"We think this is huge for us," Uber SVP of business Emil Michael told TechCrunch during a phone interview.
Uber currently operates in more than 150 cities in nearly 50 countries worldwide. The company is also offering up to $30 for consumers when they sign up for its service through its new partner apps.
