inDrive continues to advocate for enterprises’ adoption of 5G technology in their Philippine operations by revealing that it is the catalyst behind its immense growth in the country. inDrive APAC Regional Director Mark Tolley divulged this during a Joint Cybersecurity Working Group session hosted by Swedish telecommunications company Ericsson.
5G is the latest global standard for wireless networks. It guarantees users faster speed, lower latency, and increased capacity. Tech experts also say that because 5G is more programmable than its past iterations, more enterprises can customize their systems with it.
“I think it’s important to note that 5G is essentially one of our twin engines,” Tolley said, emphasizing that the app’s growth and performance heavily depend on the advanced network. “Without 5G, we’d struggle to become the app we are today.”
For instance, inDrive harnesses the power of 5G in its maps. The network enables real-time data processing and predictive analytics to optimize drivers’ routes, reduce passenger wait times, and improve estimated time of arrival accuracy. The benefits go beyond shorter trips, as 5G helps inDrive partner drivers maximize their fuel. This allows drivers to take home more of their earnings rather than spend them on refueling their cars.
5G also supports inDrive’s signature peer-to-peer business model, ensuring seamless communication between drivers and passengers and smoother in-app transactions. This business model gives both drivers and passengers the freedom of choice in all their journeys. Passengers can pick from a pool of driver options by perusing their ratings, car models, and ride histories. Meanwhile, drivers may choose their passengers by checking their profiles and desired routes. This makes inDrive a transparent and reliable app for both parties, even in congested areas like airports, business districts, or provincial hubs.
Lastly, 5G is integral to inDrive’s Safety Center. Its fast speed and increased capacity support the app’s Share Your Ride feature, where passengers can easily send their trip details to concerned loved ones. It also powers the app’s SOS button, allowing passengers to sound the alarm during emergencies and immediately contact authorities.
Tolley also said that inDrive is currently working with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to build an expansion plan and identify which underserved areas in the country it should go live in next. inDrive is also keen on teaming up with local telecommunications companies. Currently, the company is in ongoing talks with telecom providers in Nepal and Indonesia as part of its broader regional strategy. By bringing the model to the Philippines and adjusting it to the needs of the Philippine market, inDrive can expand its services to underserved areas in the country. “These underserved areas in the Philippines are areas where mobility is still a challenge. So by getting into these areas and working with the likes of DICT and the telecommunications companies, it helps us penetrate and support mobility and local economies,” Tolley said.
He also added that inDrive is working with these bodies to boost services in Metro Manila, Bacolod, Butuan, Cagayan De Oro, Baguio, Iloilo, and Cebu, where it is currently available. By harnessing the power of 5G, inDrive can continue its mission of bringing rides with fair and reasonable fares in key areas around the Philippines.
