How to Use Uber in Facebook Messenger

2015-12-16T22:09:00Z

Facebook Messenger can already be used to send money, make video calls, and get customer service support.

But now you can use it to order an Uber.

Facebook has partnered with Uber to let you order a ride without even leaving the Messenger app.

We just tried it, and it felt futuristic to have Uber built directly into an app like Messenger, which many of us at Tech Insider use daily to keep in contact with friends.

Uber is sweetening the deal for early adopters by offering the first ride through Messenger for free.

Here's how to use Uber in Messenger:

My colleague Steve Kovach asked if I wanted to meet at Penn Station here in New York City. To order an Uber ride there, I just need to tap this little button.

And then tap "Transportation" to get started.

You may also see this little car icon in a message thread once you set up Uber in Messenger. It can be used to order a ride quickly.

Facebook will also let you tap on an address in a message thread to order a ride.

Uber is giving away a free ride (up to $20) for a limited time if you order it through Messenger.

The first time you try to order a ride, you'll have to log into your Uber account.

Messenger will store your Uber credentials and handle money transactions, which means you don't even need the Uber app installed on your phone.

Your Uber payment info is pre-loaded and Messenger knows your ___location.

Just add your destination.

The only downside is that UberPool, which is usually cheaper and pairs you with travelers in a car going the same direction, isn't available in Messenger. Uber's other ride options, like UberX and UberBlack, are available.

Uber will open a thread in Messenger to give you updates on your ride status. You can also view a map of your ride and even call your driver from Messenger.

Not everyone in the US has access to the feature yet — some people in the Tech Insider office do, and others don't.

Facebook says the Uber integration in Messenger "is currently in testing" and will roll out to some people in the places where Uber operates in the US. The company also says that it will be available in more countries and have other transportation partners soon.

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for an update to the Messenger app that unlocks this cool new feature.

Ordering an Uber ride through Facebook Messenger feels like the future

My colleague Steve Kovach asked if I wanted to meet at Penn Station here in New York City. To order an Uber ride there, I just need to tap this little button.

And then tap "Transportation" to get started.

You may also see this little car icon in a message thread once you set up Uber in Messenger. It can be used to order a ride quickly.

Facebook will also let you tap on an address in a message thread to order a ride.

Uber is giving away a free ride (up to $20) for a limited time if you order it through Messenger.

The first time you try to order a ride, you'll have to log into your Uber account.

Messenger will store your Uber credentials and handle money transactions, which means you don't even need the Uber app installed on your phone.

Your Uber payment info is pre-loaded and Messenger knows your ___location.

Just add your destination.

The only downside is that UberPool, which is usually cheaper and pairs you with travelers in a car going the same direction, isn't available in Messenger. Uber's other ride options, like UberX and UberBlack, are available.

Uber will open a thread in Messenger to give you updates on your ride status. You can also view a map of your ride and even call your driver from Messenger.

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