Uber converts app into AI training platform, but driver pay concerns linger
Uber seems to be turning its ride-hailing app into a sort of data-lab for AI. The idea is that, while a driver is waiting for the next fare, they might be asked to do a tiny “microtask” - like confirming a street view or labeling a photo - and that data would feed Uber’s own AI projects. Drivers, however, are already shouting about thin paychecks, blaming the company’s steep take rate on rides and deliveries.
It’s hard to say whether anyone will sign up for extra chores when the money is already scarce. Uber points out that drivers are independent contractors, “in business for themselves,” so they can choose to opt-in or not. Still, the preview quote warns that “it remains to be seen whether Uber drivers will take to these microtasks, given how many of them already complain of low pay.” In short, the move feels like a test of how far a platform can push its workforce into data-collection without sparking more backlash over wages.
It remains to be seen whether Uber drivers will take to these microtasks, given how many of them already complain of low pay as a result of the company’s high take rate on rides and deliveries. Of course, Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, arguing they are in business for themselves and thus ineligible for traditional benefits like overtime, minimum wage protections, and health insurance. Some Uber drivers argue that the company’s algorithm exerts far too much control over their lives to be viewed as anything other than employment.
In addition to digital microtasks, Uber is also changing the offer cards for drivers and couriers to give them more time and information before accepting the trip. Offer cards are what a driver sees before they accept (or reject) a trip request. Now Uber is giving them more time to make a decision when the card first appears in their app.
Uber is also rolling out a new on-trip experience for couriers that “simplifies” multi-order deliveries with clearer pick-up and drop-off details, as well as alerts for commonly missed items.
Uber is testing a micro-task add-on for its US couriers and drivers. Participants would earn a few extra bucks by recording short audio clips, taking photos or uploading other data that helps train Uber's AI models. The move puts Uber in direct competition with data-labeling outfits like Scale AI and Amazon's Mechanical Turk.
At the same time, many drivers already complain that their take-home pay is squeezed by Uber's high commission on rides and deliveries. Since Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, the firm says each driver decides whether the extra work is worth it. Critics, however, worry the new tasks might actually eat into already thin margins rather than boost earnings.
The pilot will only work if a decent number of drivers find the pay attractive enough. It's still unclear whether the incentive will balance out the existing pay concerns. As the rollout continues, we'll have to watch whether these side gigs become a real supplement or just another source of frustration.
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Common Questions Answered
What are the microtasks that Uber drivers might perform to train AI models?
Uber drivers could be asked to record audio, snap photos, and upload data while waiting for passengers. These microtasks are designed to feed information that helps improve Uber's own artificial-intelligence products.
Why are there concerns about driver pay in relation to Uber's new AI training initiative?
Drivers have already expressed frustration over low earnings due to Uber's high take rate on rides and deliveries. The concern is whether drivers will be willing to take on these extra microtasks given their existing pay issues.
How does Uber classify its drivers, and what impact does this have on their benefits?
Uber classifies drivers as independent contractors, arguing they are in business for themselves. This classification makes drivers ineligible for traditional benefits like overtime, minimum wage protections, and health insurance.
Which companies is Uber competing with by introducing AI training microtasks for drivers?
Uber is positioning this feature to compete directly with firms such as Scale AI and Amazon's Mechanical Turk. The company aims to become the ultimate flexible-work platform through this initiative.