Low tech: Uber unveils dial-up service in Miami

Uber Technologies Inc. has launched a phone call-based service that allows customers to request rides by dialing 1-833-USE-UBER.

The “Call to Ride” service plans to expand Uber’s accessibility beyond customers who have the Uber app. Customers will be able to experience the same convenient and affordable Uber experience, just without the app, said Giovanni Castro, public affairs manager for Uber in Miami.

A rider who calls from a cell phone from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. will be connected to an agent who will create an Uber account and request a ride for them. At the initial launch, riders will then receive regular trip information and updates on their trip via text messages, including the driver’s name, car type, license plate number and estimated time of arrival.

To use 1-833-USE-UBER callers only need an SMS-enabled cell phone, which means South Floridians who may not have a smartphone, especially older adults, can now request a ride with Uber, Mr. Castro added.

This service is available only in Miami, but Uber has plans to expand to other cities in Florida in the coming weeks.

“While it was designed with older adults in mind,” Mr. Castro said, “the hope is that anyone without access to a smartphone or who prefers conversational support will benefit from this pilot.”