Grab allows audio recording for passengers’ safety

MANILA, Philippines — Passengers of ride-hailing giant Grab Philippines may now record the audio of their trips as part of security features developed by the app for security purposes.

Grab introduced additional security measures in its app to maintain its safety record of 99.99 percent, especially as demand for ride-hailing services is seen to increase.

For one, Grab brought into its platform Audio Protect – a feature which a passenger can choose to record audio throughout the ride.

Once the trip is completed, the audio will be stored in Grab’s database. It will only be pulled out in case of disputes.

Grab relies on artificial intelligence in operating Audio Protect, making it capable of sending signals to the passenger to detect potential risks.

Grab also launched the Driver Selfie Verification, which requires drivers to take random selfies throughout the day to confirm their identity.

This feature complements the existing pre-trip selfie checks, ensuring that only registered drivers are operating at all times.

Before these security functions were brought in, Grab has maintained safety mechanisms within the app to protect passengers in the car and on the road.

Grab placed an emergency SOS button on the app for direct contact with law enforcement. It also installed a function wherein passengers can report issues for quick processing of concerns.

The app runs a real-time trip monitoring feature that detects route changes and unexpected stops, offering assistance to drivers and passengers if needed.

Passengers may share ride details with trusted contacts, who can monitor their location in real time.

Grab Philippines head of mobility EJ dela Vega said the app would keep adding new layers of security to maintain its industry-leading safety record.