MANILA – A taxi app. A ‘driver for hire’ mobile service. A ride-sharing company.
There are a couple of ways to describe what Uber is but what’s unanimous is its impact, not just with how it disrupted the traditional taxi business model but inspiring innovation in other industries as well.
In just 5 years, Uber now oversees over a million taxi trips in 315 cities to date, letting anyone hail a ride with just a few taps. And this wild success has spawned dozens of “uberfied” services, from valet parking to walking the dog.
“The main reason for the popularity of these app-based services is convenience,” says Jim Ayson, head of Internet and Media Partnerships at Smart Communications.
Speaking at the Mobile Summit Manila 2015, Ayson shared that “uberification,” technically referred to as “on-demand mobile services (ODMS),” is hardly a fad. He believes that it will become more mainstream and even the norm as mobile devices become more ubiquitous and mobile networks become more accessible.
“The service comes to you, right where you are, when you want it. Since its mobile, they encourage transactions through a smartphone app rather than on a website. Plus it’s a closed loop, covering service discovery, order, payment and fulfillment all done via the mobile app.”
It’s not without caveats, however, especially in developing countries like the Philippines. Uber and another ODMS for taxis Grabtaxi has met regulatory challenges in the country, on top of smartphone penetration and mobile internet woes.
“The other challenge is financial – low credit card penetration in the Philippines means this sector needs to explore other forms of online payment (carrier billing, virtual cash wallets, etc). In-app payment is essential for the whole end-to-end experience.”
Tap your mobile device, get the service you want. It’s that simple – not to mention, world-changing. Ayson shared 13 apps inspired by what most regard as the poster child of digital disruption, but adobo decided to bring the list to 15 for good measure. Enjoy!
Luxe – Hooks you up with valet parking.
Bannerman – Instant bouncers whenever you need extra muscle to ward off people.
Breather – “Peace and Quiet” on demand. Connects people to network of beautiful, private spaces where you can work, meet and relax.
GladlyDo -An odd job service that hires students and recent graduates to help you get your to-do’s done.
Kasakoo – Started in the Philippines. Too lazy or busy to clean there house? Kasakoo lets you book a cleaner, starting at P300 per hour.
Blackjet – An Uber for private jets. For those who want to escape EDSA traffic.
Buddytruk – Simply put, connects you with a person with a truck to make your moving & delivery needs easier & affordable.
Drizly – Uber for your Liquor needs. Not yet in the Philippines, sadly.
Foodpanda – Now in the Philippines and fairly popular.
Shyp – San Francisco-based startup that picks up, packages, and ships items on demand.
Grabexpress – On trial in the Philippines, according to reports. Simillar to Shyp but backed by GrabTaxi.
Urban Message – A soothing message is just a tap away.
Blue Apron – Delivers recipes and pre-portioned ingredients to your doorstep.
Wag! – What could be a dog owner’s best friend.
Magic – An uber-inspired app to rule them all!
