Two months after launching the in-app SOS button, Uber is all set to release an upgrade for the feature across India in the next few months. Previously, users of the ride sharing app were able to contact the local authorities in case of an emergency using the SOS button. Now, the 'SOS' will also generate an automatic alert in Uber's back-end system and will be simultaneously sent to the local police control room. [related-post] The SOS alert, which is sent in real-time, will flash on a dedicated screen setup inside the police control room. It will contain critical information of the relevant trip, said Uber. This feature was previously in beta phase and Uber successfully tested it in Kolkata. The company is now in talks with the authorities and is preparing for a release across multiple cities in India. Commending Uber's efforts to ensure the safety of its passengers, Delhi Police Commissioner BK Gupta said: "It is important that industry and law enforcement take a strong collaborative approach towards ensuring passenger safety. Partnerships like these, where all stakeholders work together as a team with the best interests of the community at heart, will go a long way in making India safer." Uber has not set a time frame for the release but Kolkata or Delhi is expected to be the first city to receive the upgrade.
