Bolt has launched a new feature on its app that allows users to manage and pay for up to 9 other people through one account. Dubbed Family Profile, the feature is designed to simplify trip coordination for families, caregivers and people supporting non-tech savvy users.

2-6% of rides on Bolt’s platform are currently ordered on behalf of others, often requiring manual arrangements and coordination. The new Family Profile feature is meant to eliminate these inefficiencies by providing a more integrated and user friendly experience.

How Family Profile Works

The feature allows the main account holder to:

  • Invite up to 9 other users to join their profile

  • Set individual monthly spending limits

  • Receive real time notifications of active trips

  • Have full control of travel history and payments

If the invited users have the Bolt app, they can request rides on their own. Otherwise the main account holder can manage the trips on their behalf.

“Family Profile helps customers support loved ones — such as older adults or children — who may not be familiar with smartphones or ride-hailing apps,” Bolt said. Older adults are one of the fastest growing segments in ride-hail adoption but are hindered by usability and payment barriers.

Other changes to Bolt’s ride categories

Family Profile is rolling out shortly after Bolt announced major updates to its vehicle categories and operating policies to improve ride quality and driver earnings.

Among the recent changes:

  • Introduction of the “Comfort” category for larger, newer vehicles that were previously part of Bolt Standard. These cars must meet upgraded requirements including air conditioning and a maximum age limit of 8 years.

  • Reclassification of smaller engine vehicles: Bolt has moved cars with engines above 1,000cc — such as Toyota Vitz, Nissan Note, Mazda Demio, Honda Fit — out of the Economy category and into the Standard tier which commands higher fares.

  • The Economy category now features only ultra-compact models such as Suzuki Alto, Suzuki Wagon R, Toyota Passo, Daihatsu Mira, Renault Kwid.The Family Profile is the latest in a series of digital updates by Bolt to improve platform safety, increase transparency and reduce revenue loss from offline trips. Earlier this year the company launched a selfie verification feature for drivers and has been refining its pricing models to better match customer needs and driver welfare.

With Family Profile Bolt is not only simplifying trip coordination but also pushing for more inclusion and digital accessibility in the growing Kenyan ride-hailing market.