The third party service described in the article seems to no longer exist. Though if you look through there support information you can find that you can go to m.uber.com to request a ride. https://help.uber.com/h/b9dc6681-b346-4774-9ab1-ecaa3f22cabe

I still think my point that it requires upfront wealth and technical proficiency is still valid when related to public transportation systems.