Uber Expands into Travel with Hotel Bookings and New App Features
Uber announced a new set of products and features at its annual GO–GET product event, including hotel bookings and new travel tools.
Hotels on Uber
Among the new offerings, Uber introduced a partnership with Expedia Group that allows Uber customers to book hotels directly in the Uber app.
Uber and Expedia Group are partnering to offer Uber users in the U.S. access to a wide selection of hotels, which will ultimately grow to more than 700,000 properties in destinations around the globe. Uber One members will earn 10% back in Uber One credits on all hotel bookings, plus they’ll save at least 20% on a rolling list of more than 10,000 hotels worldwide. Vacation rentals from Expedia Group brand, Vrbo, will be added later this year.
The partnership is expected to expand beyond the U.S. In addition, following an initial pilot, Uber rides will be integrated directly in the Expedia app beginning in June. Travelers will receive push notifications before their hotel check-in date to book Uber rides at a discount for the duration of their trip.
Travel Mode
Uber also introduced Travel Mode, a new experience within the Uber and Uber Eats apps, offering travelers curated recommendations on local favorites, popular tourist destinations, OpenTable reservations, Uber’s version of “room service” delivered directly to your hotel door, and even forgotten items for those traveling to new destinations.
Uber One International
Uber One now works globally, allowing members to earn Uber One credits on rides, while enjoying $0 Delivery Fee and more. The Uber One credits earned abroad will apply once members return.
Shop for Me
Users can request items from any store, even those not listed on the app.
Eats for the Way
To help those with early mornings or packed schedules, riders in select cities can now reserve an Uber Black or Uber Black SUV and have your driver arrive with a drink or snack in hand. Once your Uber Reserve has been confirmed, simply tap “add Uber Eats” to enjoy a coffee, tea, or bite on the go.
Voice Bookings
Uber now offers AI powered Voice Bookings to help you catch a ride. It uses a conversational assistant that understands your destination and preferences. Just say what you need, and you’re on your way.
One Search
Uber has redesigned the Where to? bar so all searches will populate results for places, food and items across the Uber platform. Whether booking a ride or ordering delivery, search once and Uber will connect the dots.
