Uber launches video game to recruit minicab drivers

Eager to entice yet more cabbies, Uber is launching an iOS app designed to mimic the day to day life of one of its many drivers.

The programme, UberDRIVE, is a Google Maps based game which allows the player to act as a taxi driver in San Francisco, picking up passengers, navigating streets and learning more about the city itself.

Mike Truong, Senior Product Manager at Uber, explained the dual purpose of the app, stating: “UberDRIVE was designed as a fun and engaging resource for our driver-partners to hone their navigation skills if they choose to. It’s also a great way for prospective drivers to experience first-hand what it’s like to drive with Uber.”

The product, primarily designed as a recruitment tool, allows individual players to upload applications and screening materials from directly inside the app. And whilst San Francisco is currently the only location available on the game, Uber has plans to add more cities dependant on the success of the prototype.