Uber has launched a new 'quiet' option for passengers who want silent rides, although some say the move dehumanises drivers.
Critics claim the ride-sharing app is treating its workers like robots by introducing the 'quiet preferred' option.
The change has sparked an online debate about the ethics of silencing workers with the press of a button.
Tim Wingard, a PhD student at the University of York, tweeted: "Taxi/Uber drivers work incredibly long shifts and have to deal with the worst of the public's behaviour.
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"I don't think it's unreasonable for them to make a bit of small talk and not just be treated like disposable robots."
Ben Haddock replied: "Absolutely. It’s just further proof of how Uber dehumanises its drivers # DeleteUber."
Ben Walsh added: "The language here is so dehumanising: 'launches quiet mode' as if the company were sending out a software update and not sending instructions to workers it clearly employs.
"Uber definitely doesn't have autonomous vehicles but already treats its workers as if they are robots."
However, Sara Woznicki was in favour of the new option after one driver 'relentlessly' asked her marketing questions on an early ride to the airport.
Another Twitter user said they liked the new idea in part because of their anxiety - and a desire to avoid 'prying questions'.
Driver Kirill Shevchenko added: "I love it when my riders don't speak, but I've gotten bad reviews when I don't... If the rider wants to talk I always do but if they don't I don't, very simple system."
The new option will be available for Uber Black and SUV passengers.
