Step by Step Guide to Building an Uber API Integration in Ruby

Aug 7, 2024 • 6 minute read

Hey there, fellow Ruby enthusiast! Ready to add some ride-hailing magic to your app? Let's dive into integrating the Uber API using the uber-ruby gem. Buckle up, because this is going to be a smooth ride!

Introduction

The Uber API is a powerful tool that lets you tap into the world's largest ride-hailing network. With the uber-ruby package, we'll be cruising through this integration in no time. Whether you're looking to add ride estimates, book trips, or track ride statuses, we've got you covered.

Prerequisites

Before we hit the gas, make sure you've got:

Ruby 2.5 or higher (the newer, the better!)
An Uber Developer account (if you don't have one, hop over to Uber Developers and sign up)

Installation

First things first, let's get that uber-ruby gem installed:

# In your Gemfile
gem 'uber-ruby'

Now, give it a quick:

bundle install

And we're off to the races!

Authentication

Alright, time to get those API keys. Head to your Uber Developer Dashboard and create a new app. You'll need:

Client ID
Client Secret
Server Token

For OAuth 2.0 flow, you'll also want to set up your redirect URI. Don't worry, it's easier than parallel parking!

Initializing the Uber Client

Let's get that Uber client revved up:

require 'uber'

client = Uber::Client.new do |config|
  config.client_id     = 'YOUR_CLIENT_ID'
  config.client_secret = 'YOUR_CLIENT_SECRET'
  config.server_token  = 'YOUR_SERVER_TOKEN'
end

Basic API Requests

Now we're cooking with gas! Let's try some basic requests:

# Get user profile
user = client.me

# Price estimates
estimates = client.price_estimations(start_latitude: 37.7833, start_longitude: -122.4167,
                                     end_latitude: 37.7876, end_longitude: -122.4004)

# Available products
products = client.products(latitude: 37.7833, longitude: -122.4167)

Ride Requests

Time to get those wheels turning:

# Create a ride request
ride = client.request(product_id: 'a1111c8c-c720-46c3-8534-2fcdd730040d',
                      start_latitude: 37.7833,
                      start_longitude: -122.4167,
                      end_latitude: 37.7876,
                      end_longitude: -122.4004)

# Check ride status
status = client.trip_details(ride.request_id)

# Cancel a ride (if needed)
client.cancel_ride(ride.request_id)

Webhooks

If you're feeling fancy, set up some webhooks to get real-time updates. Create endpoints in your app to handle events like ride status changes.

Error Handling

Even the smoothest rides can hit a bump. Here's how to handle it gracefully:

begin
  client.me
rescue Uber::Error::ClientError => e
  puts "Oops! #{e.message}"
end

Best Practices

Keep an eye on those rate limits. Uber's not keen on backseat drivers who make too many requests!
Always use HTTPS for API calls. Safety first!

Testing

Before you hit the road, take a spin in the sandbox:

client = Uber::Client.new do |config|
  # ... your config ...
  config.sandbox = true
end

Write some tests to make sure everything's running smoothly. You don't want to find out about a flat tire when you're already on the highway!

Conclusion

And there you have it! You've just turbocharged your Ruby app with Uber integration. From here, the road's wide open. Maybe add some cool visualizations with that ride data? Or create a ride-sharing feature for your users?

Remember, the Uber API docs are your co-pilot if you need more info. Now go forth and build something awesome! 🚗💨

Happy coding, and may all your rides be five-star experiences!