You can request ‘quiet’ drivers through a new Uber Black feature

Uber on Wednesday revealed new features for its premium customers in the US including a “Quiet Mode” that aims to reduce chattiness during rides.

This means that Uber Black and Uber Black SUV users can now let their potential drivers know whether or not they feel talkative or simply want to be left alone on trips.

“If you need to respond to emails or are in the mood for a nap, make your trip a quieter one with just one tap. If you’re in the mood to chat, that’s an option too,” the company said on its website.

Customers can choose new “ride with luggage” and “temperature control” options as well. This will inform drivers if riders need assistance with suitcases, and what temperature they prefer in the car.

Along with silencing their driver, Uber Black customers can also request their preferred temperature and increase the waiting period

Uber Black and Uber Black SUV services further include a longer pick-up waiting period. Drivers will now wait for up to 15 minutes before cancelling a trip. Users will still be charged for every five minutes the driver waits, however.

In an interview with TechCrunch, product manager Aydin Ghajar explained that Uber drivers do not have to adhere to the new features.

“It’s not mandatory. The driver is an independent contractor. We’re just communicating the rider’s preference. The driver can have that information and do with it what they want,” he said.

Currently, the new premium features are only available in the United States, and its “not something we are looking at launching in South Africa at this time,” an Uber spokesperson told Memeburn in an email.

Feature image: Memeburn