Uber to test TaskRabbit-like service in Edmonton

Uber

Uber plans to test a new service that lets users hire drivers from its app to do household chores and projects. The service, called Uber Tasks, aims to grow beyond its core ridesharing and courier business. It will start as a “small pilot” in Fort Myers, Florida and Edmonton, Alberta in the next few weeks.

Bloomberg first reported the news, confirming its previous report in September that found a new “Chore” option in the Uber app’s code. You can think of Uber Tasks as similar to TaskRabbit or Thumbtack, online platforms for freelance workers. The difference is that Uber Tasks is only for Uber drivers and couriers who can join the program.

Uber spokesperson Conor Ferguson told The Verge that users can post tasks like furniture assembly, snow removal, laundry, packing, holiday decorating, yard work, and lawn mowing during the pilot. Uber drivers and couriers can then see the available tasks and their estimated earnings before accepting them. 

“We’re always thinking about how to bring people more ways to earn with Uber,” Ferguson said. “This small pilot is the newest way for drivers and couriers to put their skills to work and earn on their own schedule.”

Uber reported its second profitable quarter in a row for 2023 last week, but its growth is slow. The company has tried other ways to make more money recently, such as launching a new flight booking service in the UK and putting video ads in its apps.