It seems as though smartphones run every part of this world.
Without them, it’s difficult to connect to others, order things online, and navigate some of the necessities of life.
Things like calling a taxi, getting takeout, and shopping online are easier with smartphones.
However, many services realize that not everyone in the world has a smartphone.
There are ways to work around the app-based software and still use the services.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to use Lyft without a smartphone and still enjoy the benefits of location-based taxi services.
Table Of Contents
Do You Need a Phone to Use Lyft?
If you don’t have a smartphone, you might be worried about not being able to get a ride with Lyft.
It seems like everyone has a smartphone nowadays, and every service uses a smartphone app.
It can be difficult to navigate the online world for those who don’t have an advanced phone – or those who lost or broke their phone.
For Riders
Although it is much easier to get a Lyft ride scheduled if you have a smartphone, you don’t need one to order a Lyft.
Instead, you can request a Lyft through an online browser.
It’s also possible to call a number in certain counties of the United States.
For Drivers
If you intend to drive for Lyft, you do need a smartphone.
Ideally, you need a phone newer than 2013.
For the Lyft app, your phone needs to have a relatively recent update.
iPhones need iOS 11 or higher, and Android users need an Android 5.0.
However, older iOS numbers might not be able to support the app’s latest updates.
What Kind of Phone Do You Need to Use Lyft?
To use Lyft with the app, you’ll need some kind of a smartphone.
An iPhone or an Android will both download the app and use it, but the more updated your software is, the better.
However, there are ways to use Lyft without a smartphone.
You can use text-based messaging, the web browser, or call a service.
For Riders
Riders only need a phone capable of browsing the internet to use Lyft.
With a Lyft account, you can go to a browser window and log in to your Lyft account.
If you have an extra concierge service, it can only take a cell phone call.
Whether you’re in New York, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, you can call a Lyft from anywhere.
For Drivers
Drivers need a smartphone to drive for Lyft because they need to see locations and follow the app’s GPS on the go.
Without a smartphone, a Lyft concierge won’t be able to log in to the app and pick up their next customer.
New Lyft workers can’t download the app unless they have an Apple or Android phone newer than 2013.
Without an updated operating system, the phone can’t handle the constant updates of the Lyft driver app.
Related: The best phones for Uber drivers
How to Use Lyft Without a Smartphone
If you don’t have a smartphone but want to use Lyft for your next scheduled ride, several options are available.
You can either set up a Lyft ride online, use a different concierge service, or book a Lyft online.
Here are the instructions for booking a Lyft without a smartphone.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Riders
To request a Lyft without a smartphone, you need a device with a browser.
You can use the browser on your cellphone (even some non-smartphones can access the internet), laptop, or home computer.
Here are the step-by-step instructions for ordering a Lyft without a smartphone.
- Go to the Lyft website and click the login button on the top right corner.
- Order a Lyft to your destination.
- Track the driver to your location.
- Wait for the car.
You will need a credit card on file and a phone to receive phone calls.
However, you can do all of this without a smartphone.
The only issue is when you are out and need to call a Lyft.
Unless you live where dial-a-Lyft is enabled, you won’t be able to order a Lyft or Uber ride.
Other Methods
In addition to using a computer to call a ride, Uber and Lyft have integrated their services into other technology by opening up their APIs.
Innovative developers have created the ability for users to request rides through their TV, another app, or even an Amazon Echo.
With the location services that exist in most modern smart devices, it’s amazing what’s possible.
Alexa Uber Partnership
For time-sensitive users looking for a ride, ordering an Uber from their Amazon Echo is simple, but it takes a little work beforehand.
Since Alexa, the preferred personal assistant of the modern era, can take voice commands, all Uber users have to do is connect a regular or an Uber family account to an Amazon Echo.
- Open the Alexa app and select the menu from the top left of the screen.
- Tap the “Skills” option.
- From the search bar, find Uber.
- Tap the “Enable Skill” option.
- Agree to the terms to give Uber access to the location information, as long as the home address is current.
- Next, sign into your Uber account when prompted. It will ask you to agree to link the two accounts.
- Tap “Allow.” Once linked, the newly enabled skill will allow you to order an Uber with your Amazon Echo.
Want to see the process in action?
Here’s a video tutorial that walks you through the process (we like detailed video tutorials if you can’t tell).
Is It Worth It to Use Lyft Without a Smartphone?
If you are set against getting a smartphone – or will be without one for an extended period – there are many ways to work around the need for smartphone apps.
However, there are some pros and cons to everything to consider.
Pros
- You can order a Lyft on your computer.
- The tracking system is the same.
- You can use a concierge system instead.
Cons
- It is more difficult to track your location while you’re in the Lyft.
- You still need a browser, even if it’s not on your phone.
- It costs money to get a concierge service.
The biggest con is that you won’t be able to order a Lyft ride without using an internet browser.
If you are at the grocery store or somewhere without your computer, it becomes challenging to order a Lyft or ride-hailing service.
However, if you live in one of the cities in Florida that allow the Call-a-Lyft function, you can use that.
Between 8 am and 8 pm, you can call a number and schedule a Lyft line from your location to the location of your choice.
It’s like calling a taxi.
However, anywhere other than these locations, you’ll need an extra service like GoGoGrandparent.
Alternative: GoGoGrandparent
If you’re looking for yet another way to get a ride, check out GoGoGrandparent.
What Is GoGoGrandparent?
GoGoGrandparent is a concierge service that makes it easier for those without smartphones to use services like Lyft.
With a monthly subscription to GoGoGrandparent, you can call a Lyft ride with just the press of a button.
It also works for apps like Uber, Doordash, and Postmates, all app-based delivery services.
Instead of using a web browser to call a Lyft or figure out when it will arrive, GoGoGrandparent allows you to call a number and request a ride from your location.
This process makes it easier for those without smartphones to order a ride.
How Does GoGoGrandparent Work?
GoGoGrandparent works for many apps, not just Lyft.
If you need anything that originally works through a smartphone app, all you need to do is call GoGoGrandparent and tell them what you need.
There is one number to call, with multiple options for Lyft, Doordash, or any other app-based needs.
Once you set up an account with GoGoGrandparent, you or your loved one can use the service whenever they need to.
You can get a GoGoGrandparent subscription for you or someone you love to increase independence.
The various levels of subscription cater to different levels of need.
How Much Does GoGoGrandparent Cost?
GoGoGrandparent is a subscription-based service with several tiered options.
If you only need help to call certain services like Lyft or Doordash, the simplest subscription is $8.99 per month.
Higher subscription tiers come with added benefits, such as front desk support, priority customer service, and grocery delivery or ride credits.
Decreased delivery prices and unlimited rides are available with higher levels.
Assistance is available for any level of membership.
How to Order a Lyft with GoGoGrandparent
If you have GoGoGrandparent, you can order a Lyft within minutes.
It only takes one phone call and is very easy.
GoGoGrandparent will track your location or pick you up from your home address.
If you have a premium membership, Uber and Lyft rides are unlimited.
GoGoGrandparent partners with Uber, Lyft, Doordash, and many other delivery apps.
They pre-screen the drivers and couriers to ensure you have the safest and best experience possible.
Step-By-Step Instructions
To request Lyft with GoGoGrandparent, all you need to do is call the GoGoGrandparent phone number.
Once you set up an account, adding this number as a contact in your phone will make the entire process easier.
Once you call the number, you’ll hear an automated voice say, “Thanks for calling GoGo.”
The next step depends on where you are.
If you are at home, pressing “1” will automatically call a Lyft to your home.
If you press “2,” the ride will come to where you were last dropped off (a great option if you took a Lyft to an event and need to get home).
You can also set up customer locations on the numbers 3, 4, and 5 (you’ll have to pre-set these).
That is all you need to do to order a Lyft on GoGoGrandparent!
If you already have your account set up, you can go to several different places just by pressing a button.
If you need extra help or have a different location to set up, you can press “6,” and an operator will help you set up your ride.
Final Thoughts
While it is possible to order a Lyft without a smartphone, it’s much easier to do it with a browser or an external concierge service.
For example, you can subscribe to GoGoGrandparent and call a Lyft without using an app or the internet.
Either way, you can use the Lyft services without needing a smartphone.
You can’t order a ride through Lyft online without your phone because they will send a text confirmation to YOUR PHONE before you can request your ride.