Uber wants its “Request A Ride” button in as many apps as possible, and it’s willing to pay to get there. Now developers will get $5 for every U.S.-based user they sign up for Uber through API integrations in their own apps. Map, restaurant, travel, and nightlife app developers might jump at the chance to add an extra revenue stream.
Developers can sign up for the Uber API Affiliate Program here. They’ll get paid once they reach $250 and are capped at earning $5,000. At that point, they’ll have to join the formal Partners program to earn more. Users who sign up through the API get their first ride up to $20 for free.
Uber launched its API late last year but adoption by developers has been lukewarm. Launch partners included OpenTable, Starbucks, TripAdvisor, and United Airlines. Since then, Foursquare, Hinge, Microsoft, and Pebble have joined in.