Didi (滴滴) : China's biggest ride-hailing service for on-demand cars, taxis and shared rides.

Founded in 2012 as a Beijing taxi app, DiDi merged with rival Kuaidi and later absorbed Uber's China business in 2016, folding the country's main ride services into one platform.

Riders book private cars, taxis and shared-pooled trips, pay in-app, and can summon a designated driver to chauffeur their own car home after a night out.

Beyond China, DiDi runs under separate local apps, including the 99 brand it bought in Brazil and its own service in Mexico, rather than the mainland version.

Can US travelers pre-book Didi before arriving in China?

Download the "DiDi Rider" international app before arriving. It supports English, foreign credit cards, and SMS with drivers (auto-translated). No Chinese SIM required. Available on both iOS and Android app stores globally.

What ride options does Didi offer besides taxis?

Didi offers Express , Premier, Taxi, Carpool (Hitch), Bus, Designated Driving ( for drinkers), and bike-sharing. Prices are typically 30-50% cheaper than Uber in most Chinese cities.

Does Didi have privacy concerns for US users?

Didi was delisted from NYSE and fined .2B by China for data violations. The app collects location and biometric data shared with Chinese regulators. Privacy-conscious US users should weigh these factors before using it.

How does Didi compare to Uber for safety features?

Didi has more stringent safety features than Uber, including real-time ride sharing with emergency contacts, optional audio recording during trips, driver facial recognition checks, and a 24/7 safety response team.

Can I use Didi in China without a Chinese phone number?

Yes. Didi has an international app (DiDi Rider) allowing registration with an international number and foreign credit card (Visa/Mastercard). WeChat and Alipay mini-programs also work. The app supports English and auto-translates driver messages.