Uber Technologies (UBER.N) announced on Wednesday its plans to broaden the array of payment choices for its food delivery platform. Additionally, the company intends to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven assistant to aid users in discovering discounts and exploring diverse food offerings.
Uber Eats is gearing up to introduce a specialized “Sales Aisle” section to highlight promotional offers. These enhancements are expected to be launched either later this year or in 2024.
Food delivery platforms have been investing in AI to enhance their services, aiming to provide a more tailored experience and increase the overall convenience of their apps.
In May, Instacart’s competitor, CART.O, introduced “Ask Instacart,” a search tool powered by artificial intelligence (AI) designed to assist customers with their grocery shopping inquiries. This initiative was developed in collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of the AI chatbot ChatGPT.
In July, Bloomberg News reported that DoorDash (DASH.N) is also in the process of developing an AI chatbot named “DashAI” with the aim of expediting the food ordering process.
Uber has announced partnerships with federal healthcare programs like Managed Medicaid and Medicare Advantage. Starting in 2024, the company will start accepting applicable waiver payments on both Uber and Uber Eats.
Additionally, in 2024, the company will extend the option for individuals receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, which offer cash benefits for purchasing food, to utilize their waivers for grocery purchases on Uber Eats.
This action highlights a broader industry trend of targeting low-income households and vying for market share in an ever more competitive landscape.
DoorDash and Instacart have already enabled consumers to utilize SNAP waivers on their respective platforms.