The policy states that Uber collects precise or approximate GPS location from users' devices both when the app is open on-screen and when it is running in the background, and uses this data to provide ride and delivery services as well as location-based platform features.
This analysis describes what Uber's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This provision establishes a continuous location data collection mechanism that operates even when the app is not actively in use, creating an ongoing data stream associated with each user's device. The scope of background collection is operationally significant for data minimization assessments under GDPR and for compliance with state-level location data protection frameworks.
Under this clause, Uber collects device location data continuously during app use, including background operation, meaning location data is gathered beyond the duration of active trips or delivery sessions. Users can limit background location collection through their device operating system's location permission settings.
How other platforms handle this
To stop us collecting your location information, you can update your device settings, stop using the Service, or uninstall our mobile apps.
to request that your data be transferred to a third party (data portability)
Your organization may allow you to access and export your data in order to back it up or transfer it to a service outside of Google.
"We collect precise or approximate location data from riders' and order recipients' mobile devices if they permit us to do so. Uber collects this data when the Uber app is running in the foreground (app open and on-screen) or background (app open but not on-screen) of their device. We use this data to enable rides and deliveries, and for Uber's location-based features such as automatic address entry, providing estimated times of arrival, tracking trip progress, and other features.Excerpt from Uber's Privacy Notice
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This provision establishes a continuous location data collection mechanism that operates even when the app is not actively in use, creating an ongoing data stream associated with each user's device. The scope of background collection is operationally significant for data minimization assessments under GDPR and for compliance with state-level location data protection frameworks.
Under this clause, Uber collects device location data continuously during app use, including background operation, meaning location data is gathered beyond the duration of active trips or delivery sessions. Users can limit background location collection through their device operating system's location permission settings.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 290 platforms. See the full comparison.
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