Disparities in App-Based Taxi Fare Based on Phone Type

Recent observations suggest that there may be a difference in the fares displayed on Android and iPhone devices for the same rides booked through app-based taxi services. This could imply that pricing algorithms might be designed to charge Apple users higher rates.

Survey Insights by LocalCircles

LocalCircles, a community platform, conducted a survey to explore consumer experiences with dark patterns in ride-hailing apps. The survey received responses from 33,000 users across 269 districts in India.

• Demographics: 
  • 61% of respondents were men, while 39% were women.
• Key Findings: 
  • 42% of users encountered hidden charges not disclosed upfront.
  • 84% experienced 'forced action', being compelled to cancel a ride.
  • 78% reported 'bait and switch' tactics, where the waiting time shown was significantly less than the actual time.

Dark Patterns Employed by Ride-Hailing Platforms

• Uber: Utilizes forced action, interface interference, bait and switch, and drip pricing.
• Ola: Employs forced action, bait and switch, and drip pricing.
• BluSmart, InDrive, Rapido: All use drip pricing.

Prevalence of Dark Patterns

According to the survey, eight in ten app taxi users reported experiencing dark patterns such as bait and switch and forced action, while four in ten confirmed experiencing drip pricing.