Smartphone apps for catching a ride vary in price and type of service. Here are details for three of the big ones.
Catching a ride? There's an app for that
March 6, 2013 at 9:13PM
Taxi Magic
Cost: Free download, regular taxi rates plus a $1.50 charge per ride. Bill the credit card on file with the app or opt to pay in cash.
The wheels: App connects riders with Suburban Taxi or Blue and White in the Twin Cities.
Where: Taxi Magic connects to cab companies in 55 cities nationwide and offers phone numbers in cities without direct service.
Info: www.ridecharge.com.
Uber
Cost: Free download, more expensive fares than a regular cab, automatic tip. Fares are billed to credit card on file.
The wheels: In the Twin Cities, Uber works with licensed limo companies (drivers in black luxury sedans).
Where: 19 cities nationwide and 11 cities overseas, including London, Paris and Sydney.
Info: www.uber.com.
SideCar
Cost: Free download, riders can make a donation to drivers. Any money exchanged is handled through the app.
The wheels: Rides vary since private citizens are offering space in their personal cars. Drivers must have four-door vehicles in good working order with insurance.
Related Coverage
Where: Started in California and recently announced an expansion to other cities, including Chicago. Not available in the Twin Cities.
Info: www.side.cr.
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Sin City attempts to lure new visitors with multisensory, interactive attractions, from life-size computer games to flying like a bird.
