Uber announced the launch of hotel booking within its app, now available in the US as of today, during its annual product showcase. Users can access this feature by tapping the Hotels button and entering their destination, utilizing filters for personalized searches.
This expansion follows Uber’s partnership with Expedia, providing access to over 700,000 hotels globally. Uber One members will benefit from discounts and earn 10 percent of their booking payment back as Uber credit, potentially covering airport rides at no additional cost.
Uber also plans to incorporate listings from VRBO for vacation rentals later this year. Additionally, beginning June 1, Uber One members can utilize their earned credit in any of the countries where their subscription is valid, expanding beyond the current limitation of use in the subscriber’s home country.
The company introduced a Travel Mode that activates when users engage with Uber or Uber Eats outside their home city. This mode will detail how the app functions in different locales and provide a curated list of recommended local activities and dining options.
In select cities, users will soon be able to order snacks or beverages with Uber Black rides. After reserving an Uber Black trip, users can select an “add Uber Eats” prompt to have the driver pick up additional items during their journey.
The newly announced Shop for Me feature allows users to purchase items from any store not listed in the Uber app. Users will describe or upload photos of items, and a shopper will confirm the purchase before proceeding.
In an effort to streamline the user experience, Uber will soon implement an AI-powered voice booking option, enabling users to describe their requests verbally. The app’s interface has been updated to feature a unified search bar for rides, food, groceries, and other items.
Speculation is growing that Uber aims to develop into an “everything app,” similar to Elon Musk’s vision for his platform X, by incorporating additional services that reach beyond transportation and food delivery.
