Bolt, the on-demand mobility platform in Africa, is enhancing safety by introducing a new feature that allows audio trip recording. This feature enables drivers and riders to record their trips and report any safety concerns to Bolt's Customer Support.
Yahaya Mohammed, the Country Manager at Bolt, emphasized the company's commitment to safety: "Safety is our top priority at Bolt, and the audio trip recording feature is the latest addition to our in-app safety toolkit. It provides drivers and riders with a means to report any discomfort during a ride. We continuously invest in safety through new products, features, and our specialized in-house safety team to ensure a top-quality ride-hailing experience for drivers and riders."
The audio trip recording function is available exclusively during a Bolt ride, offering a convenient option for users who may feel uneasy. By initiating the recording within the Bolt app, both drivers and riders can document any incidents or conversations that occur during the trip, creating a comprehensive record.
After completing the audio recording, users can easily share it as an attachment when raising a safety case with Bolt's Customer Support. This streamlined process allows Bolt to quickly access the recorded audio and address any safety concerns efficiently, demonstrating their commitment to user safety and well-being.
Initially, the launch and testing of this feature will be limited to specific cities in South Africa and Nigeria. To access the audio trip recording feature, users must have the latest version of the Bolt app installed on their smartphones. This controlled release enables Bolt to gather valuable user feedback and fine-tune the feature before expanding it to other locations.
The introduction of audio trip recording complements Bolt's existing suite of safety features for riders and drivers. Bolt has consistently implemented safety measures such as driver identity verification, real-time trip sharing for location updates, and an SOS emergency assist button for riders. For drivers, safety features include rider rating, phone number masking, and stationary vehicle monitoring to ensure their well-being. These continuous safety upgrades aim to provide a secure and reliable transportation experience for all Bolt users.