'Jugnoo Bot' Enables Auto Rickshaw Bookings on Facebook Messenger

Auto rickshaw aggregator Jugnoo Tuesday announced the launch of Jugnoo Bot, which enables users on Facebook to book a ride through Facebook Messenger, Jugnoo's website, or its Facebook page.

The Jugnoo Bot enables users to book a ride by typing a text message in Facebook Messenger or by clicking on 'Book-a-Ride' option. Jugnoo automatically authenticates users through their Facebook login details, eliminating the need to login into the Jugnoo account separately.

Jugnoo's AI-based engine then detects their ride location and suggests nearby multiple locations to choose from. Users can also share their location by using the FB Messenger location button. The Jugnoo Bot then shares ETA and fares with users to confirm their ride. Once confirmed, a Jugnoo driver is assigned and the driver details (name, phone number, vehicle number, and a driver picture) are shared with users. The bot also allows real-time tracking of the ride by users.

The chatbot was developed in association with Fugu, a US-based firm which uses AI to understand and respond to user requests.

"There are many people who like to keep their mobile phones clutter-free and just keep some basic apps. Jugnoo Bot is for such people, where they can easily book autos using their Facebook account, making the process more conversational," said Samar Singla, Founder and CEO of Jugnoo in an emailed statement.

Founded in 2014, the Chandigarh-based startup said that it receives 30,000 daily requests, and has 10,000 autos on board its network.

In a bid to extend its doctor teleconsultation platform, Lybrate had launched its bot for Facebook Messenger on Monday.