Uber wants people to make apps for its drivers

Uber is opening up a new API to developers — this time focused on drivers.

The ride-hailing company has created a new way to let developers pull information about Uber drivers: Their profile data, trip data and data on their earnings, to start.

The API is Uber's latest offering to developers. In the past two years, the company has opened its basic Rides API and its Trip Experiences API for apps that relate to the actual experience of taking an Uber ride, and UberRUSH API focused on logistics for businesses.

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"With demand for flexible, on-demand work on the rise, we also see an extraordinary opportunity for developers," wrote Chris Saad, head of product for the Uber developer platform, wrote in a blog post Wednesday. "By leveraging driver profile data, trip data, earnings, and more, developers can create new apps and services that make driving with Uber more productive and fun."

An API, or application programming interface, allows developers to take data from Uber and use it to create other apps and services incorporating that information.

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New apps targeted toward Uber drivers or using Uber driver data could be anything from tools for driving an Uber to straightforward brand partnerships for drivers.

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So far, the driver API is being used by a few companies. The job search platform Jobcase launched a resume tool for Uber drivers that will incorporate data from their work for Uber into a resume.

An app from Sherpashare will use driver data to suggest routes to help drivers maximize earnings.

The benefits company Stride will use driver data to help drivers plan for taxes. The app Activehours will give drivers access to their pay right away, instead of waiting for payment to process through Uber.

And Sears has a loyalty program targeted to drivers.

The API is only available to select developers right now, but others can apply for access.

Drivers will need to authorize apps to be able to access their data.