Bolt Kenya has introduced a new “Family Profile” feature that makes it easier for users to manage and pay for rides for up to nine people from a single account. The company said it designed this feature with Kenyan households, caregivers, and support systems in mind. It is also meant to simplify shared mobility while at the same time guaranteeing safety and control.
What Is Bolt Family Profile?
The Family Profile allows the main user to invite up to nine other people, set spending limits, and receive real-time trip notifications. All this is done while handling payments from one account.
Some of its key functions include:
- Ability to add users who each have their own Bolt account.
- Set monthly spending limits.
- Get live trip updates.
This feature is perfect for families, caregivers, or just about anyone managing rides for others.
How to Use Bolt Family Profile in Kenya
- You will first have to update your Bolt app.
- Go to “Family Profile” under Account.
- Tap on ‘Create Family Profile’.
- You will ned to add a card as a payment method
- Set spending limits and notification preferences
Why It Matters?
According to Bolt, 2–6% of current rides are booked on behalf of others, and the new feature is meant to simplify this common use case. In most of these cases, manual coordination when you request a ride for someone can be time-consuming. This new feature also adds automation and safety layers to make that experience much better than before.
For the Kenyan context, a parent can use this feature to manage rides for students or domestic workers. Relatives can also use it to book rides for elderly family members and even small businesses can coordinate trips for employees or errands.
How Bolt Handles Safety and Eligibility
Safety is a big issue and every added user must have their own Bolt account and be 18+ years old. This feature does not support unaccompanied minors.
Some of the safety tools include:
- Trip verification codes
- Live location sharing
- Emergency assistance button
Statement from Bolt
“The launch of the Family Profile feature marks a significant step in empowering our customers to provide safe, seamless, and convenient transportation for their loved ones,” said Dimmy Kanyankole, GM for Bolt Kenya and Tanzania.
TechArena’s Take
This feature follows Bolt’s continued product localization in Kenya, which includes:
- Bolt Comfort launch
- Early Cashout Feature for Bolt Food Courier Partners
This shows the broader trend of mobility platforms evolving to meet local needs beyond just urban riders.
As ride-hailing becomes more embedded in daily life across Kenya, Bolt’s Family Profile is a smart move that combines user control, safety, and flexibility in one interface. It’s especially relevant in a market where mobile-first families often rely on one person to manage digital payments and transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many people can I add to my Bolt Family Profile?
A: You can add up to 9 people with their own Bolt accounts.
Q: Can I add minors?
A: No. All users must be 18+.
Q: Can I set spending limits for each family member?
A: Yes, you can define monthly budgets individually.
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