Uber in Pakistan announced the launch of Uber Connect, a delivery technology solution that allows users to send and receive packages and request delivery through the Uber app. The additional service aims to further support the growing community of customers and drivers who have become dependent on the tech company, especially as the country grapples with a second wave of COVID-19.
Uber Connect is Uber Delivery’s new interface, launched in Pakistan earlier this year in response to newer customer requests generated as part of nationwide lockdowns.
In comparison, Uber Connect is a refined and diverse new delivery product that offers two types of services:
One where users can send packages to and from friends and family
The second is a stop-and-shop service like Delivery, which allows drivers to collect deliveries on behalf of users from nearby shops and pharmacies. Uber Connect facilitates users’ daily activities through the app and aims to keep users connected while promoting social distancing.
Saad Naveed Pall, General Manager at Uber Pakistan said:
“Pakistan is among a handful of countries across the Middle East and Africa to launch Uber Connect, based on the success of our delivery service earlier this year. We are proud to be able to use our technological expertise and innovation to design new services that not only bring convenience to the users but also offer better economic opportunities for drivers. The launch of Uber Connect is a part of our continued efforts to keep functioning in the new normal while keeping our communities safe, and we will continue to move forward and evolve with the changing consumer trends.”
Uber has been proactively looking for ways to create more earning opportunities for current drivers affected by the pandemic lockdown. Therefore, as an on-demand service, deliveries approved through Uber Connect are made the same day by Uber Moto drivers who can receive delivery requests as well as the driver’s usual commuter requests.
Uber Connect is currently available in three cities – Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad – and can be used through the Uber app. Parcels must weigh less than 15 kg, have a monetary value of less than 3,000 PKR and must be securely closed by the senders for successful delivery. Senders can also ask couriers to purchase groceries, laundry collection, or other small items on their behalf through Uber Connect.
