New Delhi: Uber has started a pilot program in India that allows drivers to take on digital micro-tasks such as data labelling and data collection directly within the Uber app. The initiative is part of Uber AI Solutions, the company’s global unit that works on projects ranging from training self-driving cars and augmented reality systems to supporting generative AI.
Until now, such tasks were handled by independent contractors outside the Uber platform. This is the first time they are being integrated into the driver app, creating an additional income stream for drivers.
According to the company, early results from the pilot are “very promising”. Uber said the program gives drivers in India, its largest market outside the US, the chance to supplement their earnings with digital work.
The micro-tasks involve providing data inputs for advanced research and product development, as well as labelling datasets that train AI models. While Uber has not disclosed the number of drivers currently involved, it said the program could be expanded after the initial testing phase.
A company statement acknowledged the contribution of cross-functional teams, including the earner and Indian operations teams, in developing the project. “This innovation opens up a new way for drivers to participate in the AI economy, while boosting their incomes,” Uber said.
BI Bureau
