Where to download the Uber app
The Uber app is available on the Apple App Store for iPhones and iPads, and on Google Play for Android phones and tablets. Search for "Uber" in either store, then tap the download button. The app is free to download.
You can also visit uber.com on your phone's web browser and look for a link to download the app, though the app store route is faster. Do not download Uber from any website other than the official app stores — third-party sites may contain malware or outdated versions.
System requirements before you download
Your phone needs to meet minimum technical requirements for the app to work. For iPhones, you need iOS 14.0 or later. For Android phones, you need Android 8.0 or later. If your phone is older and cannot update to these versions, the app will not install.
The app also requires about 150 to 200 megabytes of free storage space on your device. Check your phone's storage settings before you start the download. If your phone is nearly full, delete unused apps or photos to make room.
Steps to install the app on your phone
For iPhone: Open the App Store, tap the search icon at the bottom, type "Uber", and tap the cloud icon or download arrow next to the Uber app. You may be asked to confirm with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple password. Wait for the download to finish, then tap "Open" to launch the app for the first time.
For Android: Open Google Play, tap the search icon, type "Uber", and tap the "Install" button. Android will ask permission to access certain phone features — tap "Accept" to proceed. Once installation is complete, tap "Open" to start the app.
What happens after you open the app for the first time
When you launch Uber, you will see a screen asking you to sign in or create an account. You can sign up using your email address, phone number, or a social media account like Google or Apple. The app will ask for your name, a valid payment method, and your location.
You will also need to verify your phone number by entering a code that Uber texts to you. This step confirms that the phone number belongs to you. Only after verification can you request a ride.
Setting up your payment method
Uber requires at least one payment method on file before you can book a ride. You can add a credit card, debit card, or link a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Enter your card details exactly as they appear on your card — mismatched names or numbers will cause payment to fail.
You can also add a promotional code or gift card balance to your account. These will be used first when you pay for a ride, with your card charged only for any remaining balance. Keep your payment information current; if your card expires or is declined, Uber will ask you to update it before your next ride.
Troubleshooting common download and installation problems
If the app will not download, check that you have a stable internet connection — use WiFi rather than mobile data if possible. If the download keeps stopping, restart your phone and try again. If you see an error message saying your device is not compatible, your phone's operating system is too old and cannot run the current version of Uber.
If the app installs but will not open, try closing it completely and opening it again. If that does not work, restart your phone. If the app still crashes on startup, uninstall it, restart your phone, and download it again from the app store. Contact Uber's support team through their website if the problem persists after these steps.
Keeping the app updated
The Uber app receives updates regularly to fix bugs and add features. On iPhone, open the App Store, tap your profile icon, scroll to "Available Updates", and tap "Update" next to Uber. On Android, open Google Play, tap your profile icon, select "Manage apps & device", find Uber under "Updates available", and tap "Update".
You can also turn on automatic updates so the app updates itself without you having to do it manually. On iPhone, go to Settings > App Store and toggle on "Automatic Updates". On Android, open Google Play settings, tap "Network preferences", and select "Auto-update apps" to update only on WiFi, or allow updates on any connection.
Key Takeaways
- Download the Uber app free from the Apple App Store or Google Play — do not use third-party websites.
- Your phone must run iOS 14.0 or later (iPhone) or Android 8.0 or later (Android), and you need at least 150 to 200 megabytes of free storage.
- After installation, you will create an account, verify your phone number, and add a payment method before you can request a ride.
- If the app will not download or open, check your internet connection, restart your phone, and try uninstalling and reinstalling if the problem continues.
- Turn on automatic updates in your phone's app store settings so Uber stays current without manual effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Uber on a computer or tablet?
Uber works on tablets that run iOS or Android, and you can view your account on a computer at uber.com, but you cannot request a ride from a computer. The ride request feature is only available in the mobile app. You can manage payment methods, view ride history, and contact support through the website.
What if I do not have enough storage space on my phone?
Delete apps you no longer use, clear your photo library, or move photos to cloud storage like Google Photos or iCloud. You need at least 150 to 200 megabytes free. If your phone is consistently full, consider upgrading to a device with more storage capacity.
Do I have to use the app, or can I request a ride another way?
You can request a ride through the Uber website on your phone's browser, though the app is faster and more reliable. Some features, like tracking your driver in real time, work better in the app. Most users find the app easier to use once it is installed.
Is the Uber app safe to download?
Yes, the app is safe when you download it from the official Apple App Store or Google Play. Both stores scan apps for malware before they are published. Never download Uber from any other source, as unofficial versions may contain harmful code.
What if I accidentally deleted the app?
Download it again from the app store using the same process. Your account information and payment method will still be there when you sign back in — nothing is lost when you delete the app itself.