Technology leaders in Austin , Texas have proposed a ride - booking app as an alternative to those from Uber and Lyft after a contentious regulation dispute between the two led to the departure of both companies from the area . This resulted in a void , with no company stepping in until now with the release of a new app by Austin , a not - for - profit option supported by local donations that have pre - paid for thousands of rides in the city . This app is to be in active service from June this year and with the same functionality as Uber and Lyft enabling the population to book rides and arrange pick - up times at their convenience . Joe Garcia, a lobbyist for Yellow Cab Austin, said local taxi officials question RideAustin drivers being allowed to operate initially just in the downtown area and whether the non-profit will have adequate insurance coverage, among other issues. Furthermore , there will be a feature allowing passengers ( or riders ) to donate to local charities . RideAustin is a strong supporter of background checks on drivers , an issue that both Uber and Lyft were looking to bypass with self - regulation that was rejected by Austin voters , resulting in closure of both companies in the process .
Technology leaders in Austin , Texas have proposed a ride - booking app as an alternative to those from Uber and Lyft after a contentious regulation dispute between the two led to the departure of both companies from the area . This resulted in a void , with no company stepping in until now with the release of a new app by Austin , a not - for - profit option supported by local donations that have pre - paid for thousands of rides in the city . This app is to be in active service from June this year and with the same functionality as Uber and Lyft enabling the population to book rides and arrange pick - up times at their convenience . Furthermore , there will be a feature allowing passengers ( or riders ) to donate to local charities . RideAustin is a strong supporter of background checks on drivers , an issue that both Uber and Lyft were looking to bypass with self - regulation that was rejected by Austin voters , resulting in closure of both companies in the process .