UBER has launched a new feature in the United States that allows female riders and drivers to choose trips with other women. The update aims to improve comfort and safety for women using the ride-hailing platform.
The company tested the feature in several US cities last year before expanding it nationwide. According to Uber, many women said the option made them feel more comfortable during rides and more confident while driving.
How the New Feature Works
The new setting, called “Women Preferences,” lets female riders request a woman driver directly through the app. Riders can also reserve trips in advance to increase the chances of being matched with a female driver.
Female drivers can also choose to pick up women riders more often. The company said the feature gives drivers and passengers more control over their experience on the platform.
In cities where teen accounts are available, teenagers and their parents can also request a woman driver for added peace of mind.
Legal Challenges and Debate
Despite its launch, the feature has already sparked legal debate. Two drivers in California have filed a class-action lawsuit claiming the option discriminates against male drivers.
The drivers argue that the policy may give female drivers access to more passengers. The lawsuit claims the feature could violate the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which bans discrimination by businesses based on factors such as gender.
Uber has denied the claim and asked the court to move the case to private arbitration. The company says the feature supports public safety and responds to requests from women using the platform.
Wider Industry Context
Uber said women currently make up about 20% of its drivers in the United States. The company has already introduced similar options in more than 40 countries, including Spain, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia.
Another ride-sharing company, Lyft, introduced a comparable feature in 2024 that allows riders and drivers to prioritize women and non-binary matches.
Uber says the new feature reflects growing demand from users who want safer and more flexible ride options.
