Uber is making it easier for travelers to book a ride, even if they don’t have a smartphone. The company is rolling out new physical kiosks that will let you book a ride without ever opening the mobile app.
The first kiosk is debuting at LaGuardia Airport in New York City. The idea is simple: you walk up to the kiosk, enter your destination and the type of ride you want, and then you’ll get a printed receipt with all the details about your booked ride. Uber is pitching the new service as a great option for international travelers who might not have a data plan, but it could also be a lifesaver for anyone whose phone has died.
The move also makes Uber a much more direct competitor to traditional taxi services at airports. With these new kiosks, Uber is creating its own version of a taxi stand, giving travelers a clear choice between a rideshare and a yellow cab. Uber plans to expand the kiosks to other airports, hotels, and ports in the coming months.
In other New York travel news, Uber also announced it is expanding its airport shuttle bus service to Newark Liberty International Airport. This means that all three major New York City airports now have access to the service, which offers a cheaper alternative to a private car.
