Uber, a spunky startup that’s made a name for itself by using mobile devices to hook up people with rolling stock — starting with an app that let idle limo drivers in San Francisco know about people who couldn’t get a cab due to the city’s notoriously dysfunctional taxi regulations — has a great new stunt. They’re giving ice-cream truck drivers and people who want ice-cream the ability to understand each others’ needs: if you’re willing to buy five or more ice-creams, you can signal that and nearby truck-drivers will see and respond to your desire. The service is available in Boston, Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Toronto, and Washington DC.
* You can request ice cream by selecting the ‘ice cream cone icon’ in your Uber app.
* Set the location where you want the ice cream truck to show up and tap ‘request ice cream delivery here.’
* You’ll receive an ETA and be able to communicate with the driver.
* The ice cream truck will deliver five ice creams (you will have the option to order more when the truck arrives).
* We’ll bill your credit card card on file $12 for each bundle you order and hook you up with some sweet Uber swag.
(via Hacker News)