(31) Facebook and Uber team up to offer Messenger users taxi trips

Link: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/facebook/12054819/Facebook-and-Uber-team-up-to-offer-Messenger-users-taxi-trips.html

 

Summary:

 

Facebook Messenger users can now order taxis from Uber via the social network. The social network revealed on Wednesday that it has launched a Transportation option on its messaging service. This will allow people to hail a cab from Uber without them having to download and use the taxi-hailing app's own site. Uber will also provide updates on waiting times via Messenger. Facebook said its Uber service is "currently in testing" and will only be available in areas where Uber already operates in the US.

Key data/statistical information:

• With more than 1.4bn people using Facebook every month, the deal could unlock a huge revenue stream for both firms.
• Uber's last funding round valued the private company at $50bn, and linking up with the world's largest social network could also make it more socially acceptable.
• TfL is consulting on 25 proposals for private hire companies - several of which could seriously affect Uber

What's my view?

I think that this would help to make Uber more popular as Facebook is one of the popular social networking sites that people use today and would find it an easy access for them is they could call for an Uber driver through the use of this. This shows that social media is definitely making things easier for todays generation which encourages the pluralistic view.