Workers rights: Uber incorporates several changes to drivers' app

Global ride-hailing major Uber has incorporated several changes to its app for drivers to improve the experience for both newer as well as seasoned drivers, besides testing out several new features for drivers, including a scrolling feed of promotions and gamified `quests` that would be viewable before drivers sign in to start driving, said The Verge report.

There would be a `simulated trip` to walk for newer drivers through the virtual steps of their first ride before they commit to actually picking up passengers, said the report, adding that the update on Uber`s app comes at a time when ride-hailing drivers in California are supporting legislation, that would reclassify them as employees rather than contractors.

Drivers would also receive notifications for longer than average trips, and when they need to cancel a trip, the app would allow them to specify the reasons why - while a new feature would automatically accept the next trip to help the drivers earn the `consecutive trip` bonus paid out by Uber, the report added.

Even as critics have dismissed these `gamified` features as psychological tricks meant to keep drivers on the road longer, Uber reportedly stated that these features are popular with drivers as they often put more money in their pockets.

Earlier in May, Uber drivers in cities across the US staged a strike to protest unfair pay, poor working conditions and lack of transparency from Uber.