How To Build An App Like Uber? – Everything You Need To Know

The image shows two women interacting inside a car. One of them is holding a smartphone, and they are both smiling. Text overlaid on the image reads: "How To Build An App Like Uber? Everything You Need To Know." There is also a logo for "quanrio" at the top left of the image.

Technological advancements and changing people’s preferences create opportunities for new players to enter the market of ride-hailing app development and succeed. You can do this by offering features or catering to niches that existing companies are not addressing. 

There is no doubt that companies like Uber are major players but they don’t hold an unbearable monopoly. So, what are you waiting for tech startups? Be ready to begin a transformative journey that could shape the future of your tech startup game.

In this guide, we’re about to expose the untold story of how to build an app like Uber, similar to the industry giant. Buckle up as we dive into the critical steps, essential features, and intriguing cost dynamics that will elevate your startup into the fast lane of success.

Let’s now look at important statistics of Uber to understand Uber’s impact and reach in the dynamic landscape of 2024.

Uber 2024 Statistics You Must Know

According to Demandsage:

  • Uber has 131 million active users as of 2024
  • Uber generated a revenue of $9.3 billion in Q3 2023
  • Uber owns 74% of the ride-hailing market share as of 2024
  • Uber makes 23 million rides per day on average and takes 7.64 billion trips in a year
  • Uber is available in around 72 countries and 10,000 cities.

Ride-Hailing Apps Market Statistics

According to Statistica:

  • In the Ride-hailing market, the number of users is expected to amount to 1.97bn users by 2028
  • User penetration is projected to be 22.6% in 2024 and 24.6% by 2028. The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to amount to US$94.80
  • In global comparison, most revenue will be generated in China (US$63,280m in 2024

Steps to Build An Uber Like App

1- Technical Audit And Research

First of all, make a list of requirements for your Uber-like app development. If you already have an existing ride-hailing app then you just need to align it with your current operations. 

If you are planning to build it from scratch then strategize everything as per your vision. In either case, you need to research and find out the improvements that you can offer over existing ride-hailing apps.

2- Market Research

Before starting development, conduct thorough market research to find out the needs and preferences of your users. 

Also, ensure to carry out the competitive analysis, potential gaps in the market, and unique selling points to set your app apart from others. You can start by picking a single country first as there is a variation in countries’ economies.

3- Pick your Ride-Sharing Business Model

In this stage clearly define your target audience and identify their demographics and preferences. 

Customize your app features to meet the specific needs of your drivers and riders. Also, prepare your business model canvas to have a better understanding of the business model. 

4- Choose the Right Development Team

This is the most crucial step as you must choose the right development team with expertise in mobile app development, UI/UX design, and backend infrastructure.  

You can also collaborate with an experienced app development company or freelancers having experience in creating successful ride-hailing platforms.

5- Select App Features

After that, you must prioritize some features such as real-time tracking, secure payment gateways, user-friendly interfaces, and driver-rider communication. Integrate the geo-location feature for a seamless experience. 

6- Ride-sharing App MVP Development

So now the research is done, it’s time for development. Start your journey by developing a (minimum viable product) MVP for your ride-sharing app. Focus on core features to test the market, gather user feedback, and refine your app based on real-world usage.

Key Features That You Must Include

The image features a smartphone screen displaying different app features. Each section is illustrated with colorful icons and short descriptions. The categories shown are: "System Protection," "Real Time Location," "Personalized Attention," and "Find Your Friends." Above the images, the "quanrio" logo is visible, and a text overlay at the bottom reads: "Key Features That You Must Include."

1- User-Friendly Registration

Registration and profile are the two main features of building an app like Uber. It’s important as you can keep track of your user base and your user base get access to fully operational service. This feature is a must-have in terms of Uber-like mobile app development.

Offer your customers a quick registration via social media or email If you want to create an app like Uber. Uber provides registration options via different means like Google, Facebook, or email and asks for phone numbers.

You can also add a rating or review system as this feature will make your app more client-oriented. This feature allows users to know if the driver has a low rating. 

2- Communication And Notification

Communication and notification are also basic features that you must consider while developing an Uber-like app. This feature enables users to text or call their drivers without leaving the app.

Communication with customers via email, SMS, or push notifications keeps them informed about important events such as order confirmation and car arrival.

3- Ride Cost Estimation

This is also a basic feature that can show customers the approximate cost of the ride before they book it. 

To include this feature in your Uber-like app, your mobile app development service providers should create an algorithm estimating the price based on users’ pickup and drop-off location. 

To follow an Uber-like model, you must also provide users with three different types of car options with different rates.

4- Schedule A Ride in Advance

This feature allows users to schedule a ride in advance from a time frame of 15- 30 days and plan their trips more accurately.

This feature can save them from the hassle of booking rides daily and save their time as well.

5- Book a Ride for Other People

This is also an advanced feature just like Uber has in which users can book rides for other people. It allows users to book a ride for a relative or friend through their account.

As soon as the booking is confirmed, the relative or friend receives the details of the ride via SMS.

6- Split A Fare

Another attractive feature to include if you want to build an app like Uber. It allows users to split the cost of rides with mates traveling with them.

7- UI/UX Design

A huge portion of app development cost depends on the UI/

UX design. Ride-hailing apps should be user-oriented so they must have attractive and easy-to-use UI/UX.

So, the Uber-like app development cost must include design expenses. 

You must be wondering what makes a design good. Remember two things, it just needs to be simple and clear.

Main Features For Drivers In Uber-Like App

When talking about the features that an Uber-like must have let’s discuss about the main features for drivers.

1- Driver Report

The Driver report feature ensures the safety of both the parties driver and passengers. This report contains a brief overview of the driving style of the driver for a limited timeframe (eg: week or month). 

If careless driving is observed and occurs in continuation then Uber bans the driver who breaks the rules. So, if you want to develop an app like Uber, must include this feature.

2- Advanced Route Building

If you’re looking to enter into the ride-sharing business then considerable investment into the route-building functionality is crucial. The better the routes are optimized, the more efficient your drivers will be. 

3- Driver Destinations

You can enhance the overall experience of drivers who partner with the company by including this feature in your app. Drivers can select their desired location and find passengers who need a ride on that route. 

4- Free Cancellation Within 2 Minutes

Adding this feature to your app will save time and money as it is useful when customers want to leave or delay the booked ride.

This is a must-have feature for Uber-like app development as it can not just reduce the risk for drivers but for businesses as well.

It implies the rule that the ride is free for the first two minutes for passengers but if they take a lot of time then additional charges will be applied.

If passengers cancel the ride then they need to pay a fee equal to a ride base fare. 

5- Heat Maps

You can also add a heat map feature to your app as it can simplify the work of drivers. It can help the drivers to see the parts of the city with the huge demand for the service. 

How Much Does It Cost To Build An App Like Uber?

An obvious concern that arises in the mind of tech enthusiasts is How much would it cost to build an Uber-like app.

So, Let’s see what factors can affect the price before getting to the final cost of building an app like Uber.

Features Affecting The Cost of Uber-like App Development

The image shows three app screens, each illustrating different features related to Uber-like app development. The screens are labeled "Easy Search," "Quick Access," and "Pick Your Destination." Each screen includes an illustration of a person using a mobile phone or interacting with a map. The "quanrio" logo is visible at the top left, and text at the bottom reads: "Features Affecting The Cost of Uber-like App Development."

The set of features you choose to integrate into your app has a significant influence on the total cost of the Uber-like app development. 

Type of Your Company

Company type is also one of the important factors like if you want to establish a taxi company or want to launch a startup company?

If you own an established taxi service then you may want your mobile application to be built with your business process in mind.

In the meantime, the development of the startup company involves building the app alongside the business process in mind.

However, startup companies’ development involves building the app alongside the business itself. This option is flexible but the budget is typically tight.

Selection of App Platform

The choice of platform is a timeless question for many entrepreneurs. However, the answer is quite simple: Choose both iOS and Android if you want your app to be widely used. 

While, if your budget is tight that is a common scenario in most cases then you can develop an MVP based on either platform depending on your target audience and preferences.

For instance, iOS was launched on iOS first as iPhones were super popular during those days. 

Technology

Mostly it is convenient to develop native apps rather than a hybrid one. The difference between them is in architecture, programming languages, and many other aspects.

Concern with an experienced taxi booking app development company before making a final decision on your Uber-like app development plan.

How Quanrio Can Help In Uber-Like App Development?

To wrap it up, Quanrio is your go-to friend when it comes to building an app like Uber. We have a team of experts who make the whole development process super smooth. So, if you want a cool and efficient app like Uber without the headaches, Quanrio is your way to go. We ensure to make your app dreams come true. Just team up with Quanrio and you’re on your track to app success.

FAQs

How much does it cost to build an app like Uber?

The cost to build an app like Uber varies greatly but a basic version may start around $50,000 while more complex features may increase the budget. Factors affecting the rates include app complexity, features, and development rates.

How do I create an app like Uber?

To create an app like Uber, hire a skilled development team, plan the app’s features, design a user-friendly interface, and ensure compliance with regulations. Utilize technologies like GPS and payment gateways for functionality.

How long does it take to build an app like Uber?

The development time depends on the complexity. A basic version may take around 4-6 months, while more advanced features can extend the timeline.

What software is used to develop the Uber app?

Uber’s app likely used technologies such as React Native, Swift, Kotlin, Node js, and Mongo DB for a scalable and responsive solution.

How to save your money on building an app like Uber?

To save money on an app like Uber opt for an MVP initially, focus on initial features, and cost-effective technologies, and consider outsourcing development to regions with lower labor costs.

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