New Patent Shows How Uber Wants To Go Social

Uber wants to implement social media information in its app, according to a new patent filing.

According to CNNMoney, Uber intends to use social media information to better connect rides that use the UberPool feature.

UberPool matches a user of the Uber platform with a stranger that is heading in the same direction. This may add a few minutes to the user's travel time, but it also lowers the overall cost. However, it may also create awkward scenarios as two strangers are now sitting next to each.

By harnessing the power of social media, Uber can then scan for information that connects to the two strangers, including a mutual friend on Facebook Inc FB, common interests or same country of origin.

The patent application also states riders could select an option in which a ride will be shared with a stranger on condition that they share something in common.

CNN Money noted the patent has yet to be approved by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office and as is always the case there is no guarantee Uber will implement the concept. It does however offer a glimpse into the future of transportation and could encourage people to start sharing rides which will also reduce traffic and congestion.

Uber's patent may also fit in with the company's CEO Travis Kalanick's vision of completely eliminating traffic in major cities .