Apple reportedly discussed a deal with on-demand transportation firm Uber to provide same-day product deliveries, but the Cupertino firm eventually decided to go with startup firm Postmates instead.
According to sources, Uber was in discussions to offer same-day Apple Store deliveries through its existing fleet of on-demand vehicles, reports The Wall Street Journal.
Uber refers internally to its on-demand service as “UberEverything,” and the new service has yet to get much traction in the expanding on-demand delivery market. The one year old delivery service has reportedly landed on six partnership deals so far. Online retailer Gilt Groupe dropped the service as it says Uber failed to be able to insure expensive products.
The reason Apple’s talks with Uber fell to the wayside are unknown. The company is now offering a $19 same day delivery service performed by Postmates in many locations around the United States. The option first appeared in the Apple Store iOS app, and is now also available in the company’s Online Store via web browser. Packages usually arrive within four hours of purchase.