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# Taxi App Safety Measures
Uber Introduces SOS Button to Strengthen Rider Security

By Meghan Young | Published 2015-02-11 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sos-button
References: [theverge](http://www.theverge.com/2015/2/11/8017829/uber-adds-sos-button-india-following-alleged-rape) & [uber](https://www.uber.com)

After a few reports of sexual abuse in India, [Uber](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-uber-safety-features) has introduced an SOS button to increase security for riders. Available as an in-app update, it will "allow users to share details of their rides with up to five contacts and to call the police using a new SOS button in case of an emergency," writes [The Verge](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-verge-sony-giveaway).

These contacts will be able to track the ride in real-time, which will make any driver think twice about taking advantage of his or her fare. Not to mention that the SOS button will provide a peace of mind to riders. It was created with the help of a "local team of specially-trained safety experts," according to a statement released by Uber last year.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 0.9/10
- Popularity: 9% | Activity: 9% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Mobile](https://www.trendhunter.com/mobile)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Increased Rider Security:** The introduction of an SOS button in taxi apps like Uber strengthens safety measures and provides increased security for riders.
- **Real-time Ride Tracking:** The ability to track rides in real-time creates a deterrent for drivers who may consider taking advantage of passengers.
- **Collaboration with Safety Experts:** Working with specially-trained safety experts helps improve safety features and builds trust with app users.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Ride-hailing Services:** The adoption of safety measures like the SOS button can help ride-hailing services enhance their reputation and attract more users.
- **Personal Safety Devices:** The integration of real-time tracking and emergency buttons in taxi apps creates opportunities for personal safety device manufacturers.
- **Safety Consulting:** The involvement of safety experts in developing security features for taxi apps opens up new avenues for safety consulting services.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Auditory Rideshare Safety Updates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/new-uber-safety-features.md)
- [Rideshare Security Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uber-audio-recording.md)
- [Youth-Catered Transportation Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/teen-accounts.md)
- [Woman-Focused E-Hailing Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kgosigadi-rides.md)
- [Gig Worker Safety Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gig-worker-safety.md)
- [Safety-Enhancing Ride Share Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bosch-ridecare.md)
- [Privacy-Focused Uber Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/industryfirst-privacy-features.md)
- [Women’s Safety Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/im-safe.md)
- [Safety-Focused Delivery Features](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/doordash-2.md)
