Uber (NYSE:UBER) is reportedly developing a new service, codenamed "Chore", which resembles TaskRabbit, as part of its efforts to diversify its range of services. This information was discovered in hidden code strings within Uber's iPhone app by developer Steve Moster and shared with Bloomberg, according to reports.
The code suggests that "taskers" can be hired for a minimum of one hour. Users are required to describe the task they need help with, estimate how long it will take, and specify when the tasker should arrive. While the code does not provide examples of potential tasks, companies like TaskRabbit and Angi typically offer services such as cleaning, furniture assembly, and moving assistance.
This development comes amid a rising trend of consumers turning to side gigs for additional income. According to LendingClub (NYSE:LC) Financial Health Officer Anuj Nayar in a conversation with PYMNTS in April, employed individuals are generating over $50 billion a month from these cash-based side gigs. PYMNTS intelligence has also indicated that 29% of consumers have started generating extra income in various ways, a trend that gained momentum in early 2022 due to the lingering effects of COVID-19 and rising inflation.
In parallel with this trend is the shift towards remote work, which offers individuals the flexibility to earn extra income "after work" from their home-based settings. Nayar predicts this trend will continue, citing data that shows 51% of those not currently earning an additional income plan to do so in the next three months.
Uber's move into gig tasks aligns with these trends and could potentially provide a new avenue for consumers to generate income. However, there has been no official confirmation from Uber regarding the development or release of the 'Chore' service.
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