Did you know that your driver app probably lets you choose another navigation app for directions? You have a few different options, each with its pros and cons.
Uber
Uber’s built-in navigation can be convenient if you’d rather not worry about having to switch between apps, but you might get better routes from a leading navigation app like Google Maps or Waze. This is especially true if you’re in an area with heavy traffic, road closures, or construction.
Lyft
Lyft also has built-in navigation, but it differs from Uber’s in that it will add automatically accept new trip requests while you’re driving. This may not be what you want, so be sure to keep an eye out for new rides and cancel them if necessary.
Google Maps
You’re probably familiar with Google Maps. If you want to avoid slowdowns during rush hour, Google Maps has the best traffic data of any of the navigation apps. The only downside is that you might have to switch back to your driver app to see updates on your trip and new trip requests.
Apple Maps
Apple Maps is a good alternative to Google Maps if you have an iPhone. If your car supports CarPlay, you can use the screen in your car’s center console for directions while using other apps on your phone.
Waze
Waze crowdsources data from other drivers to predict the best routes in real-time. It’s especially good at avoiding traffic jams, speed traps, construction, and other road hazards. But like Google Maps and Apple Maps, you may find that you need to switch between Waze and your driver app.
If you’re just starting out, it’s probably best to stick with your driver apps’ built-in navigation. You’ll have enough to worry about without having to switch back and forth between apps.
But once you’ve mastered the art of picking up and dropping off passengers, it might be worth looking at the other navigation options available to you.
Action Items
01
Download some of the navigations apps above and play around with them. It might be easier to test them out on a few personal trips before you try to use them for rideshare.
02
Once you’ve found a navigation app that suits your needs, try it out for rideshare by going to your driver app settings and setting it as your navigation option.