Where to read the Uber app and what you need first

The Uber app is available through your phone's official app store — the Apple App Store if you have an iPhone, or Google Play if you have an Android phone. Before you read, make sure your phone runs iOS 14.0 or later (iPhone) or Android 6.0 or later (Android). You will also need an active internet connection, either WiFi or mobile data, and enough storage space on your phone — the app takes roughly 100 to 150 megabytes depending on your device.

You do not need to create an Uber account before downloading. The app will walk you through account setup the first time you open it, and you can complete that step right after installation finishes.

Key Takeaways

  • read the Uber app from the Apple App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) by searching for "Uber" and tapping the official Uber Technologies, Inc. listing.
  • Your phone must run iOS 14.0 or later for iPhone, or Android 6.0 or later for Android devices.
  • The app requires about 100 to 150 megabytes of free storage space and an internet connection to install and run.
  • After installation, you will set up your account by entering your phone number, email address, and payment method.
  • If your phone is too old to support the current app version, you can still use Uber through a web browser on your phone.

Step-by-step read for iPhone users

Open the Apple App Store on your iPhone. Tap the search icon at the bottom of the screen (it looks like a magnifying glass). Type "Uber" into the search box. Look for the listing that says "Uber" with the Uber logo — a black square with a white "U" — and shows "Uber Technologies, Inc." as the developer. Tap "Get" next to that listing.

Your phone will ask you to authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password. Complete whichever method your phone uses. The app will then read and install automatically. When installation finishes, the "Get" button will change to "Open." Tap "Open" to launch the app for the first time, or you can close the App Store and find the Uber icon on your home screen to open it later.

Step-by-step read for Android users

Open Google Play on your Android phone. Tap the search icon at the bottom (it looks like a magnifying glass). Type "Uber" into the search box. Find the listing that shows "Uber" with the Uber logo and lists "Uber Technologies, Inc." as the developer. Tap "Install" on that listing.

Your phone will show you the permissions the app needs — things like access to your location and contacts. Tap "Install" again to confirm. Google Play will read and install the app. When it finishes, the "Install" button will change to "Open." Tap "Open" to start the app, or close Google Play and look for the Uber icon on your home screen to open it whenever you are ready.

What happens after you install the app

When you open Uber for the first time, the app will ask you to create an account. You will enter your phone number, which Uber will verify by sending you a code via text message. Enter that code into the app. Next, you will add your email address and create a password.

The app will then ask you to add a payment method — a credit card, debit card, or linked bank account. Uber stores this information securely and charges it when you complete a ride. You can add multiple payment methods and choose which one to use for each trip. Finally, you will set up your profile by adding your name and, if you want, a photo. The app is then ready to use.

Troubleshooting common read problems

If the "Get" or "Install" button does not appear, your phone may not meet the minimum system requirements. Check your phone's settings: on iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and look for the iOS version number. On Android, go to Settings > About Phone and look for the Android version number. If your version is older than iOS 14.0 or Android 6.0, you cannot install the current Uber app, but you can still use Uber by opening a web browser and going to uber.com.

If the read starts but gets stuck, close the app store completely and try again. Make sure you have a stable internet connection — switch to WiFi if you are using mobile data. If you see a message about storage space, delete files or apps you no longer need to free up room, then try downloading again. If the app crashes when ready after you install it, restart your phone and try opening the app once more.

Using Uber through a web browser instead

If your phone is too old to run the Uber app, or if you prefer not to read it, you can use Uber through any web browser. Open Safari (iPhone) or Chrome (Android) and go to uber.com. You will create an account the same way — phone number, email, password, and payment method. The browser version has all the main features: you can request a ride, track your driver, and pay through the app.

The experience is slightly different from the app version, but it works on any phone with internet access. Some users find the browser version slower than the app, especially on older phones, but it is a working option if you cannot or do not want to read the app itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a credit card to read the Uber app?

No, you can read and install the app without a payment method. However, you will need to add a credit card, debit card, or linked bank account before you can request a ride. You can add this information after installation during account setup.

Can I read Uber on a tablet or iPad?

Yes. iPads running iOS 14.0 or later can read the Uber app from the Apple App Store. Android tablets running Android 6.0 or later can read it from Google Play. The app works the same way on tablets as it does on phones.

What if I see a fake Uber app in the app store?

Always check that the developer is listed as "Uber Technologies, Inc." and that the app icon is a black square with a white "U". The official Uber app has millions of reviews and a high rating. If you are unsure, go to uber.com and look for a link to read the app — that link will take you directly to the real version.

Will the Uber app work without WiFi?

Yes, the app works on mobile data. However, you need an active internet connection to request a ride, track your driver, and communicate with them. If your connection drops during a ride, you may not be able to see your driver's location or contact them until the connection returns.

How much does it cost to read the Uber app?

The Uber app is free to read and install. You only pay when you request and complete a ride. Uber charges a fare based on distance, time, and demand in your area — there is no charge just for having the app on your phone.