Uber is capping the usage of AI tools, such as Claude Code, in an effort to cut costs. The company aims to optimize its technology spending by controlling access to generative AI platforms.
Uber capped employee AI spending after blowing through its budget in just four months. This measure aims to control the rising costs associated with the use of AI tools and services within the company.
Uber reportedly blew through its AI budget in just one quarter, highlighting the significant costs associated with utilizing and developing artificial intelligence in large corporations. The Fortune article discusses how the company exceeded its spending expectations on AI tokens and models.
Uber president Andrew Macdonald states the company is questioning its return on AI investments after exhausting its annual budget just four months into 2026. He notes it's difficult to draw a direct line between rising token consumption for Claude Code and the delivery of more useful consumer features.
Uber is utilizing OpenAI to power AI assistants and voice features, aiming to help drivers earn smarter and riders book faster. This enhances the efficiency of its global real-time marketplace.