On a related note how can I put uber app on my phone? I have an android and every time I go to download app it tries to use googleplay which is problematic. I was able to create account on website but can't figure out how to download app from their website without google play.

Just find a current Uber apk file and do a manual install. Sometimes I find apps with my PC and email them to myself (when Play Store is being problematic).

Apparently People's Uber is pretty much just like UberX here in the States. But apparently the cars are owned by the state and the drivers lease it from them. The cars are nice however -- I got a ride in a brand new VW Passat with full leather interior, etc.

The fares are also "only pay enough to compensate drivers for gas, tolls, and other expenses". Source.

The state owns the car? Are you serious?
Strange article in your link: "When I fired up the app while there, I discovered it was different from the U.S. version I was used to. It was Communist-themed"
Communist-theme???

I agree that's hogwash. As the name suggests, "Peoples Uber" cars are owned by "people" (for the most part; e.g. there is a company here in Shanghai that has a fleet of Rowes it puts into play on Peoples Uber).

Eta: I gave the linked article a closer read, and it's actually not that bad/inaccurate. However, I do think framing peoples uber as a charity was a bit disingenuous. We all know that uber loses lots of money in China in general and on peoples in particular. Didi also operates in the red; they are trying to decimate each other. But, neither company has long term plans of simply burning investment funds for the sake of the "people".

One needs to be around with knowledge of culture and history to understand the uses and meaning of "people's" in PEOPLE'S Republic of China.

I think the copied it from the US.:p

1863 "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth" Gettysburg Address.

1949 Oct 1. founding of the People's Republic of China

2014 "People's" Uber

I think I asked this before but couldn't find the thread.

For Uber pickups at Beijing Capital Airport, it directs me to the parking lot for pickups. Arriving just after midnight at Terminal 3, how do I get to the parking lot? Or should I just try a pickup from the Departures level?

Take a taxi in this case (I.e zero room for debate).

Will do if I miss the last Airport Shuttle Line 1 to Liangmaqiao.