Uber Denies Implementing Apple, Android Based Pricing in India, Ola, Google

Uber, which provides cab services through the app, has denied fixing pricing based on users’ smartphones. Many users on social media had complained about Ola and Uber charging different prices based on Apple and Android smartphones. After this, the Central Consumer Protection Agency (CCPA) sent notices to both these companies regarding the alleged difference in pricing.

Consumer Affairs Minister, Pralhad Joshi, in a post on social media platform X, had informed about the notice given to these companies by CCPA. Joshi had said that he would direct the CCPA to investigate allegations of differential pricing strategies in other segments like food delivery and online ticketing.

An Uber spokesperson told Reuters, “We do not set prices based on a user’s phone manufacturer. We will work with the CCPA to resolve any misunderstandings.” Ola, Apple and Google did not respond to requests for comment. India is included in Uber’s big markets. Recently Joshi had said that discrimination in pricing is a major violation of consumers’ rights. In October last year, CCPA had issued a show cause notice to Ola Electric, one of the largest electric two-wheeler companies, over alleged violation of consumer rights, misleading advertisements and unfair business practices.

The Karnataka High Court had given the company six weeks to respond to the CCPA’s previous letter. The CCPA had conducted a preliminary investigation into a large number of complaints against Ola Electric. In this, violations related to violation of customers’ rights, misleading advertising and deficiencies in service were found. After this, CCPA Director General of Investigation was instructed to investigate this matter. Ola Electric argued that the officer issuing the notice was not authorized under the Consumer Protection Act. The company had said that the officer who issued the notice has not been given the post of director or additional director. On this, the High Court had clarified that the Director General of CCPA has authorized an officer of the rank of Senior Director to conduct the investigation.