Abstract: Some embodiments enable a traveler to delay a ride which was previously arranged with a ridesharing service. For example, a traveler may be notified when the time for a previously arranged ride is approaching, and may indicate that the ride should be delayed by a short period. Some embodiments may enable the traveler to request a short delay with minimal effort and thought, so that if he/she is otherwise occupied when notified, he/she may quickly and easily delay the ride without having to divert his/her full attention from other tasks.

Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a server component providing to a client device information which a traveler may use to determine when various ridesharing services have surge pricing in effect for a ride, enabling the traveler to mitigate the effect of surge pricing on the price of the ride. Some embodiments are directed to a server component causing one or more ridesharing services to be passively monitored, and automatically notifying a traveler when surge pricing for a ride is discontinued, so that a traveler need not check and re-check with the ridesharing service(s).

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention are directed to techniques for enabling a traveler to book a ride through a ridesharing service in advance. Some embodiments are directed to making it easy for a traveler to book a ride in advance, by allowing the traveler to specify a starting location, a destination and a time at which they would like to arrive at the destination, so that different transportation options and/or a pick-up time may be identified. Some embodiments are directed to techniques for reminding the traveler of ride details as the departure time approaches, and for updates to be issued to the traveler if travel conditions (e.g., traffic, weather, emergencies, etc.) threaten to increase the amount of time needed to travel from the starting point to the destination location.