Uber Technologies Inc. is a ride-sharing and technology company that was founded on March 14, 2009, by Garrett Camp and Travis Kalanick in San Francisco, California. The idea for Uber was born when the co-founders had trouble finding a cab in Paris, which led them to envision a more convenient and efficient way to connect passengers with drivers using a mobile app. The company initially started as "UberCab" but later shortened its name to "Uber."
Uber's primary business model is providing ride-hailing services through its mobile application. Passengers can request rides from nearby drivers through the app, and drivers can choose to accept or decline the ride request. The app provides real-time tracking of the ride, cashless payment options, and an ability to rate drivers and passengers. In addition to ride-hailing, Uber has expanded its services to include food delivery (Uber Eats) and freight transportation (Uber Freight).
Since its founding, Uber has rapidly grown into one of the most valuable and influential technology companies globally. However, its growth has also been accompanied by controversies and regulatory challenges, particularly related to labor practices and its impact on the traditional taxi industry. Uber has faced legal battles in various cities and countries, as authorities sought to regulate its operations and address concerns about driver classification and safety.
In recent years, Uber has been diversifying its business to include electric bikes and scooters, as well as investing in autonomous vehicle technology. The company's goal is to provide a comprehensive transportation ecosystem that offers multiple options for urban mobility and delivery services. Despite facing competition from other ride-hailing companies and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Uber continues to be a dominant player in the global transportation industry.