In late 2023, Lyft introduced a new feature on its app that aims to provide women with the feeling of safety in their rideshares that they’re often missing for late-night rides. The new feature, called Women+Connect, has recently gained traction on social media, with TikTok releasing an ad showcasing how it works.
In the TikTok ad, released Feb. 13, a female Lyft driver discusses the launch of Women+Connect, and how she’s noticed that whenever she shows up to drive a female, she instantly notices the relaxed change in their demeanor.
The comment section of the video was full of women praising the company for adding this new feature.
“Absolutely love that Lyft has this, THANK YOU,” one user wrote.
The sentiment was clearly shared with others, with numerous TikTok users commenting on how needed this feature was and acknowledging the importance of women’s safety using rideshare, especially in cities.
According to Lyft’s website, the feature can be used by any female or non-binary individual. The website says that it built Women+ Connect for three reasons: to create opportunities, to make rideshare better, and to connect women across the world.
The new feature was built in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign, It’s On Us, the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, and the National Sheriff’s Association.
So… How does it work?
“Women+ Connect gives women and nonbinary drivers the option to turn on a preference that will prioritize matches with other nearby women and nonbinary riders,” Lyft’s website says. Women and nonbinary riders in cities where Women+Connect is available (including NYC!) will be prompted to either select ‘Sounds good’ to remain opted-in or ‘Edit profile’ in the Lyft app to opt out. Riders will have the option to update their gender in their profile. If you don’t see the feature in your app and you’re in a city where the feature is available, Lyft suggests making sure you have the latest version of the app downloaded.
So… What if I’m still matched with a man?
While Women+Connect prioritizes matching female and non-binary drivers with riders, it’s not guaranteed that you’ll be matched when using the feature. The driver a rider is matched with ultimately depends on availability, as Lyft’s goal is still to get you to where you need to go as quickly as possible.
So… What if I’m trans/non-binary?
This feature is inclusive of anyone who identifies as female or non-binary. Lyft is clear that they treat transgender women as they would any other female. The app uses nonbinary as a term to encompass identities such as agender, bigender, genderqueer, or gender fluid. All of these individuals are eligible for the Women+Connect feature.
So… What do I do if I don’t see the feature in my app?
The first thing Lyft suggests if you aren’t offered the opt-in on opening the app is to go to your system preferences and select your gender. Once you’ve selected your gender as female or non-binary, the option to opt-in should appear.
In addition to the new Women+Connect feature, Lyft has been consistently adding safety features to make both drivers and riders feel safer when using rideshare. So far, Lyft has partnered with ADT, a well-known security company, to contact 911 on behalf of drivers or riders needing emergency assistance. ADT’s assistance can be requested via phone call, video call, text, or silent alert. Lyft also monitors rides for unusual activity such as long delays or route deviance. Riders can also request a check-in to confirm they reached their destination safely.
For any other questions or inquiries, Lyft directs its users to the FAQ section for the new feature or to Lyft Help.