RIDEGURU
I was suggested by a fellow driver and Lyft's marketing emails that I should get a Lyft AMP. You know, one of those LED lights that go on your dashboard.
Knowing that the cost is on the driver, I was not quick to jump in on the deal. My friend and Lyft both seem to suggest your tip will increase if you use these AMP lights. Is this true? What's your experience been like?
Comments
I think you got something wrong. Maybe your "friend" is trying to make a few bucks off of you.
I think Lyft is sending these out for FREE to those drivers who qualify. I forgot where I saw it, but if you are in one of the cities and provide like 200 rides a month (or something), they'll send you one for free.
You qualify for one (for free) after 500 rides. and it isn't 500 a month.
At least that's what I was told. I guess you just have to show your commitment. Then I believe you can keep it regardless of whether you drive or not.
We all treat these lights like they are gifts from the heavens but it's just an plastic box with an LED light in it. You charge it with a USB cable like anything else.
It must cost $2.50 to make. Should be $10 in regular retail.
and the fact that it's FREE ADVERTISEMENT for Lyft sort of makes me mad.
Actually, it does more than that. It has like a personalized greeting and updates you on the ride and stuff.
How could it possibly increase tipping? If the driver is doing his job, driving safely, being polite, courteous and helpful that will result in the passengers tipping.
Not a fancy light on the dash. Don't get me wrong. I think it's a nice addition. I just think it's wrong to sell it like it'll increase tips.
There was a thread on this a few weeks ago:
https://ride.guru/lounge/p/lyft-drivers-are-putting-led-beacons-in-their-windshields
I think it ended up being about how these things look like pink vibrators.
People who hasn't seen it yet thinks this is just stupid pink box that lights up. Guys, this is a lot more than that. When the passenger gets on, it has a personal greeting on it and it updates the passengers on the ride, e.g. arrival time. It's like a suped up taximeter.
Now, does it get me more tips? Hells no. Not in my experience. I would imagine 65% of the riders never even see it in the first place. I guess maybe when I am approaching? but I already had that before
80% don't ever pay attention to even notice that there are personal greetings.
Tipping happens after the ride. I don't think the AMP light even crosses people's minds while they are looking at that tip button.
Did Lyft really claim you will make more money? I don't think they would do that. That's crazy. and no, I wouldn't expect any more tips for having a cool light. that just makes no sense.
Yes, they did.
HOW IT'LL CHANGE YOUR RIDES
Amp changes color to match your passenger’s Lyft app: This “beaconing” feature is the secret to smoother pickups. Plus, delighted passengers are more likely to leave good reviews and tips.
It's still up at: https://take.lyft.com/amp/
NO.
This makes absolutley no sense. Why would people tip more for having an LED? Just because of an overall smoothness of the experience? Given why people tip and how tipping works, it is completely silly to think that THIS is what makes the difference.
These companies are all liars.
Just saw them on eBay. $75 is pretty high. I like ie thought. Are Uber Becons free?
Yes, they are free. Being offered to busy drivers in prominent markets.
I think it's a form of advertising for Uber and Lyft. and some to do with building up loyalty with drivers.
How much are these things? They look kinda cool. I want one just for the sake of having one.
Are you even a driver? I am suspecting you just want it for room decor. No offense. I can see people wanting one.
It's like being in college and wanting a Neon Beer Sign in your dorm room.
So it looks like you can buy them on eBay for like $80. Pretty expensive.
There is no way this will get you more tips! You are so naive if you think a light up dashboard thingy will make people tip.