Grab is currently testing a new feature called AudioProtect. Through it, it's a feature that activates the microphone support on the smartphone, as well as recording audio during the journey you take using Grab – as an additional protection.
This feature will be officially launched in October. For now, Grab AudioProtect is being tested in beta form among a few users in Johor Bahru and Penang.
Grab informed that the recording will be deleted after 10 days if no incident is reported. If something is reported, the recording will be isolated and used for further investigation.
The recordings made will also be encrypted, and cannot be heard back by anyone after a trip, unless an incident is reported and it will be used for investigative purposes.
Once activated, the recording will run automatically every time you ride Grab. Through the FAQ as well, Grab stated that recording will be done if both the driver and the user activate the feature.
For those of you in Johor Bahru and Penang, you can check whether this feature has been activated for you or not. All users are expected to be able to use it by October.