Cab aggregators Ola and Uber are facing questions from the Ministry of Consumer Affairs over allegations of charging different rates based on the type of mobile device used for booking rides.
Reports reveal that users with iPhones were being charged higher fares compared to those using Android devices for the same service. The companies have been asked to explain their pricing policies, and further action will be decided based on their responses.
The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has issued notices to cab aggregators Ola and Uber, seeking explanations on allegations of differential pricing based on the type of mobile device used to book rides.The notices, sent by the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), come in response to reports suggesting that both companies charge different fares for the same service.
The issue of alleged differential pricing by Ola and Uber has gained attention after a Delhi-based entrepreneur recently shared discrepancies in fares across different devices and battery levels through a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter).
This isn't the first time the matter has come to light. Back in December, an X user shared a photo showing two phones displaying different fares for the same route on the Uber app, sparking widespread discussions online.
After the viral post, Uber addressed the claims, denying that its pricing model is influenced by the type of phone used.
The company clarified that any variation in fares is due to factors such as pick-up locations, estimated time of arrival (ETA), and drop-off points, emphasizing that it does not personalise trip pricing based on the rider's mobile device.