Light, the company behind the minimalist Light Phone III and upcoming Light Flip, has introduced a rideshare feature that enables users to access Uber and Lyft services directly from their devices. The new tool allows owners to search for pickup and dropoff locations, view fare estimates and arrival times, select different trip options or access frequently visited locations, and complete bookings. Users can also monitor driver information, estimated arrival time, and contact the driver if needed.
The rideshare capability represents an early demonstration of LightOS’s “tool library” software development kit, which will enable third-party developers to expand the phones’ functionality while preserving the core principle of minimizing feeds and notifications. Light announced plans to open submissions for the Tool Library by month’s end, with tools becoming available to users several weeks thereafter.
The integration operates through a partnership with Tremp, a company that provides SMS-based rideshare ordering services. Users configure access through Light’s web dashboard, similar to other LightOS applications. While the service is not free, Tremp charges a 10 percent service fee with a two-dollar minimum, though it waives this fee for the first five rides during the initial 30-day period following account creation.
Light’s approach of adding essential features to a minimalist device addresses a potential tension in the product’s design philosophy. Company cofounder Kaiwei Tang has explained the strategy previously, stating the goal involves designing modern technology from the ground up while removing unnecessary elements. By providing access to critical services—whether transportation, music, or other utilities—Light aims to prevent users from returning to conventional smartphones with their constant algorithmic recommendations and alert notifications.
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