One of South Africa’s popular e-hailing platforms, Uber, has announced that it will phase out its UberX
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One of South Africa’s popular e-hailing platforms, Uber, has announced that it will phase out its UberX service from September 1, 2026, with notifications sent to users in Johannesburg.
However, it remains unclear whether the change will be implemented in other parts of the country.
UberX is a standard ride option on the platform, typically used for everyday trips in non-premium vehicles. It sits between entry-level services like Uber Go and higher-tier options such as Uber Comfort and Uber Black.
According to an email sent to drivers on Tuesday which IOL has seen, the company said the move forms part of a broader update to its product structure aimed at simplifying ride categories and improving clarity for both drivers and riders.
"We’re making an important update to how products are structured in your city. From 1 September 2026, UberX will no longer be available.
"Over time, we’ve discovered that many trips are completed by the same vehicles operating on Uber Go, UberX and Comfort. This has made it harder for riders to see the difference between products, and harder for drivers with higher-spec vehicles to benefit from that difference," the company said.
The company added that it is simplifying its product offering to create clearer categories that better reflect how riders choose trips and how drivers earn.
"We’re simplifying the product portfolio to create clearer categories that better reflect how riders choose and how drivers earn".
The company stressed that drivers will still be able to operate on any product their vehicle qualifies for, including:
"Most drivers already complete the majority of their trips on Uber Go, with additional opportunities on higher-tier products where eligible. We’re committed to building a marketplace that works better for drivers over time. This includes making sure products are clearly defined, demand is well distributed, and drivers can plan with more certainty," the company said.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business
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