Uber incentivises third-party apps to feature its Ride Request Button in battle for digital supremacy
Uber is looking to dominate app-land with the public release of code enabling third party apps to embed the 'Ride Request Button'.
In addition to interweaving Uber through the fabric of the web and granting it additional support, the ride-hailing service will pay developers $5 each time a new customer is referred via the button.
The code, which can be embedded in both iOS and Android apps, will send existing users to the Uber app with their ride pre-configured. New users however will be directed to download the app from the app store.
Currently the service is only available in the US although if successful it could prove a vital digital driver globally for the app.
There are restrictions on the inclusion of the button.
Uber demands that participants don't feature “any application, website or other product or service that also includes, features, endorses, or otherwise supports in any way a third party that provides services competitive to Uber’s products and services, in our sole discretion.”
In otherwords, consumers will not be seeing the button appear on apps trying to ignite further competition between Uber and rivals such as Lyft and traditional taxis.
Apps for local business and transit could embed the button in their apps in a bid to conveniently influence commuters to hire an Uber.