Ola Launches Offline Booking: Lets You Book a Cab When Your Data Connection is Off

There have been times when you may have run out of your data balance and want to desperately book an Ola cab. Looks like Ola has figured out a way to allow you to do your bookings regardless of internet connectivity with its new feature called Ola Offline. Ola is upping its game in terms offering as it has rolled out a new offline feature for its mobile app. With the latest update, users can now book an Ola ride without internet connection.

This works based on your registered mobile number, so it uses that information for your billing. There are no other additional charges, and you can pay by cash if you prefer, though if you have Ola Money, that will be deducted. Once you get back to a network, the app resumes normal operation.

Ola said the feature will automatically appear when you are offline. You can then send your current location via SMS after which you will receive a SMS with the driver details, once your booking is confirmed. The company notes that these messages are charged at Rs 3 per SMS.

The Ola Offline feature will be available across all the cab categories such as Micro, Mini, Prime and Lux. Ola Offline makes use of SMS to assist you with booking cabs.

Here are the steps you need to follow to be able to book an Ola offline:

• You will get two options if you try to book an Ola cab when there is no internet connectivity: Retry and Book via SMS

• You can select the Book via SMS option

• You will then be redirected to your default messaging app where you can see a pre-entered text message requesting Ola to book a cab

• After sending the SMS, you will get an SMS with particulars of the nearest available cabs across categories

• After selecting your prefered cab category, you will get your cab driver details instantly via SMS

• The driver will also receive customer contact details and GPS triangulated location of the user

Once the internet connection resumes on your phone, the ride details, GPS tracking, SOS button and all the regular features that you expect from an Ola app, will be updated in real time.

Cheers!!!