Uber can now track your location even after you’ve been dropped off and app is closed
New update to app allows taxi giant to collect passenger data up to five minutes after a journey has finished
A NEW update to Uber has given the app the ability to track passengers’ locations even after they’ve been dropped off and exited the program.
The firm can now collect passenger data up to five minutes after a journey has finished.
The global taxi giant was previously only able to do this when users had the app open.
Uber claims the upgrade will help end the frustration experienced when drivers and passengers can’t locate each other.
Explaining the update on its website, Uber said: “Uber collects your location data from the time of trip request through five minutes after the trip ends, including when the app is in the background.
“We do this to improve pickups, drop-offs, customer service, and to enhance safety. Trip Related Location Data is collected during the following times.”
Luckily, users still have the choice between setting their information sharing options to “Always” or “Never”.
But if riders opt for “Never”, they will be forced to enter their pick-up and drop off locations manually every time they use the app.
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Speaking on the app update, a spokesperson for Uber told the : “We’re always thinking about ways we can improve the rider experience from sharpening our ETA estimates, to identifying the best pick-up location on any given street.
“Location is at the heart of the Uber experience, and we’re asking riders to provide us with more information to achieve these goals.”
The update has already been slammed by privacy advocates in the US.
The Electronic Privacy Information Centre has reportedly filed a complaint with the US Federal Trade Commission for what it has described as “unfair and deceptive trade practice”.
Uber has been embroiled in legal issues regarding passenger data in the past.
The firm was recently ordered to fork out $20,000 (£15,700 GBP) after a case in the US this year.
US courts ordered the payout after probing into its “God View” tool, which allowed drivers to track their riders in real time before it was phased out.
Don't like the sound of the new update? Here's how you can turn it off
Anyone unhappy with Uber having permission to constantly track their location can turn the feature off.
Bear in mind that riders who choose to turn the setting off will be forced to enter their pick-up and drop off locations manually every time they use the app.
On an Android phone, users can go to Settings, Apps, Uber, Permission, and toggle Location Off.
On an iPhone, users can select Privacy, Location Services, Uber, and select Never.
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