Buzz
While strolling through the city, you may come across electric Bird scooters stationed on sidewalks or cruising in bike lanes. The process is straightforward: Utilize a smartphone app, downloadable, to pinpoint a nearby available scooter and activate it. Then, ride the scooter to your destination, park it, and handle payment via the app. Pricing is based on usage duration. These guidelines will detail the step-by-step process of renting a Bird scooter.
Instructions
Configuring the Bird App
Get the Bird app. Streamline the process by downloading and setting up the Bird app before embarking on your search for and ride on a Bird. The app is available for free on the Apple Store and Google Play under the name “Bird - Enjoy The Ride.” Look for the app icon featuring a white wings symbol against a black background.
Allow Bird app permissions. When you first open the app, it will request access to your location and permission to send notifications. You must grant these permissions for the app to locate available scooters nearby.
- You can opt for the “Only While Using the App” setting to restrict location access to when the app is open. Whether you want to receive notifications is your choice.
Input your email and tap “Ride.”
Confirm your email. Tap the two parallel lines at the top left of the app's home screen. Select “Settings,” then hit “Verify Email.” The app will email you a verification link, which may take a few minutes to arrive.
- Open the email and click “Verify.” This action will return you to the Bird app's Settings with a checkmark next to your email, indicating verification. Tap the back arrow at the top left to go back to the main screen.
Provide your payment details. Tap the two parallel lines icon at the top left. Choose “Payment.” Select a payment method and follow the prompts to add it. The app will verify your chosen method. Note: Some credit cards may not be accepted.
How to Rent a Bird Scooter
Locate a Bird. Use the map on the app's home screen to find an available Bird scooter. The map also provides details about the scooter, such as battery level and distance. Click on the Bird icon of your choice to begin the rental process.
Walk to Your Bird. The selected Bird may be located some distance away. If needed, walk to where the Bird is positioned. Avoid scooters indoors, as they might be charging. Look for scooters on sidewalks or in open areas.
Confirm Your Scooter. When you approach the desired scooter, tap the “?” next to the battery icon. Use the “Chirp Alarm” feature to locate your scooter, especially if there are multiple nearby.
Select Your Ride. To unlock the scooter, tap the “RIDE” button at the bottom center of the app. The app will switch to camera mode for scanning the scooter's QR code, located between the handlebars.
Scan the QR Code. Align the QR code with your phone's camera. The app will automatically scan it. You'll then be prompted to enter your driver’s license and agree to the user agreement (required only for the first rental). Tap “Unlock” at the bottom right to start your rental.
Begin Your Scooter Journey. Activate the scooter by pressing the throttle located on the right handle with your thumb. The left handle controls the brake, and there's a bell to alert others. Give a gentle push with your foot to start, if needed. Refer to the app for detailed instructions on starting and riding the Bird scooter.
Secure Your Bird Scooter When Not in Use. Use the app to lock the scooter when taking a break. This prevents unauthorized use and ensures your scooter is available when you return. Tap “Lock” to secure the scooter and “Continue Ride” when you're ready to resume.
Finish Your Ride. Park the scooter near a bike rack and avoid blocking pathways. Tap “End Ride” in the app to conclude your journey and make the scooter available for others. Use the camera mode to verify proper parking before ending the ride.
Rate Your Riding Experience. Share your feedback with Bird by rating your ride experience. Click on the star to provide your rating and any additional comments.
Useful Tips
- Locate an available Bird scooter on the app. If none are visible, the scooter may be locked, malfunctioning, or out of battery.
- Check if Bird scooters are available in your area by visiting the Bird website: https://www.bird.co/
- Now offering Bird scooter delivery! Sign up in the Bird - Enjoy The Ride app to have a scooter delivered to you each morning for all-day use.
Important Reminders
- Only one rider per Bird allowed.
- Follow local laws; ride in bike lanes or near the right curb, not on sidewalks.
- Wear a helmet and protective gear whenever possible.
- No drinking and riding permitted.
- Must be 18 or older with a valid driver’s license to ride.
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
Essentials
- Smartphone
- Bird - Enjoy The Ride app
- Payment Method (credit card or Apple Pay)
- Driver’s License
- Helmet (recommended)
