Uber is expanding its safety tools by rolling out a new feature that allows parents and guardians to watch their teen’s ride in real time.
According to PEOPLE, the live video streaming feature is currently available in nine U.S. markets and is expected to expand nationwide over the coming weeks. The feature is part of Uber’s Teen Accounts program, which allows teens to request rides through an account linked to a parent or guardian.
Once a teen’s trip begins, the parent or guardian will receive a notification if the driver’s live video feature is enabled.
Parents Can View the Ride With a Single Tap
In a press release, Uber explained how the feature works.
“If a driver has live video enabled, we’ll send the teen’s parent or guardian who’s linked to their account a push notification when the trip begins. With a quick tap, they can begin viewing the live video.”
The company told PEOPLE that it does not have access to watch the live video in real time. Instead, an encrypted recording is stored on Uber’s servers and is automatically deleted after 14 days unless it becomes part of a safety report or investigation.
Parents will also receive a notification if the live stream is interrupted because of connectivity issues.
Feature Available in Select Cities Before Nationwide Expansion
The live video feature is currently available in the following markets:
- Atlanta
- Phoenix
- Orlando
- Raleigh-Durham
- Portland, Oregon
- San Antonio
- Cleveland
- Rhode Island
- El Paso
Uber says the feature will gradually become available across the United States in the coming weeks as the company continues to expand its safety offerings for teen riders and their families.