5 new Uber features you should know — including a way to avoid surge pricing

5 new Uber features you should know — including a way to avoid surge pricing

Reviewer: Marie

Guest editor from Northfield Mount Hermon School

February 05, 2026

News from: nbc   

  

Uber is rolling out several new features aimed at making commuting more affordable and convenient for frequent riders. Announced at its annual Go-Get showcase, these initiatives reflect Uber’s commitment to enhancing user experience by prioritizing predictability, ease, and cost savings.

One of the key introductions is Route Share, a shared-ride option allowing users traveling common routes to share rides with up to two other passengers. Operating during weekday peak hours in seven cities—including New York, San Francisco, and Chicago—this service offers fares up to 50% cheaper than UberX, with bookings available from 7 days to 10 minutes in advance. Uber is also working to have this feature qualify for commuter benefits through employer partnerships.

Additionally, Uber launched two types of Ride Passes to help riders lock in prices and avoid surge pricing. For $2.99 monthly, a Price Lock Pass lets users secure a fare between two locations for one hour daily, with a 30-day expiration or $50 savings cap. Prepaid ride bundles offer discounted rides in increments of 5 to 20 trips, providing savings from 5% to 20%. These passes debut in 10 cities and will be available on teen accounts this fall.

Uber is also expanding its autonomous vehicle (AV) partnerships, preparing to test shared AV rides with Volkswagen, aiming for a 2026 launch in Los Angeles. The company currently operates AV services with Waymo in Austin and plans launches in Atlanta and Phoenix.

Other highlights include special Uber One Member Days from May 16 to 23, offering steep discounts on rides, and a new partnership between UberEats and OpenTable that enables users to book restaurant reservations alongside discounted rides in six countries. This integration allows OpenTable members to convert points into Uber credits and enjoy a free Uber One trial.