Uber India has introduced a new initiative that allows its drivers to monetize their downtime by contributing to AI data collection. Drivers can now perform tasks such as reviewing photos, counting objects, classifying text, and digitizing receipts through the Uber app. The move aims to enhance Uber’s AI models while providing an additional income stream for drivers.
Megha Yethadka, global head of Uber AI Solutions, revealed the initiative in a LinkedIn post, stating that the work can involve reviewing photos, counting objects, classifying text, recording audio, or digitizing receipts. She emphasized that these tasks, which were previously completed by independent contractors, can now be done through the Uber app. The early results are described as very promising, and Uber is eager to scale this further.
Prabhjeet Singh, Uber’s president for India and South Asia, noted that the gigs are available in 12 cities and that “tens of thousands of drivers” are already performing what Uber calls “digital tasks.” The initiative is part of Uber’s broader strategy to expand its AI capabilities and has the potential to benefit both the company and its drivers by creating new monetization opportunities.