Uber launches Uber Lite version of App

Uber, today, announced the launch of Uber Lite: the new, lighter way to access Uber that uses less space, consumes less data, and works on all android devices.

General Manager for Uber in West Africa, Lola Kassim explains that the introduction of Uber Lite was in response to consumers’ request for a better and lighter version of their much loved apps.

“The Uber Lite app is a redesigned Uber app that uses less space and works better in low connectivity, while still delivering on optimacy when requesting a ride,” she said.

Lola Kassim said Uber Lite’s new interface was designed to make booking rides quicker and lighter in low connectivity, on basic Android phones, and for people with limited data plans.

Here are the key product features:

Light on your phone: Uber Lite is less than 5MB to download (that’s equivalent to just 3 selfies). A smaller app frees up space for actual selfies and other apps. And, with a 300-millisecond response time (literally the blink of the eye), the booking process is fast even in low connectivity.

Guided Pickups: Uber Lite guides users through the request experience by detecting their current location, so minimal typing is required. If it can’t detect your location because of GPS or network issues, it guides you to choose popular landmarks nearby like Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the Black Star Gate.

Tap Over Type: Uber Lite makes picking your destination as easy as a tap of a button. Instead of typing where you are, you can choose a nearby point of interest. Additionally, the app stores the city’s top places so that even when you are offline, no network is needed for them to appear. And the more you use Uber Lite, the smarter the app gets. It learns where you go most often, and surfaces those options first. This feature is particularly convenient for people with phones with smaller screens.

Maps On Demand: To keep the app light and fast, maps in Uber Lite are not loaded by default, but are available with a tap when you need them.

The company said, Uber Lite retains the core functionality of the rider app, has in-app support, and includes critical safety features such as Trusted Contacts; a feature that allows riders to share their trips with about five friends and family and driver profiles, allowing riders to identify their driver and their vehicles before they get in.