A local ride-hailing service called TAP30 announced on Monday that users can now use a “robot” on messaging application Telegram to summon a ride, which marks the first such use of AI in the field.
TAP30 lets users choose their location and the destination on Telegram’s map; a driver then confirms minutes after the request.
Users are informed of the name of the driver, the type of car and the license plate, offering the options of paying the fare in cash or online, like similar ride-hailing apps.
One of the biggest challenges of most domestic startups is coaxing Iranians to switch from the traditional methods of doing things to modern forms.
Telegram is already the most popular messaging/social media application in Iran with over 45 million users.
By offering more affordable prices than its main competitor Snapp, TAP30 has grown quickly among users of ride-hailing apps.
Both apps have become popular in Tehran, as they frequently offer special rates compared to private telephone taxis.
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