Watch: Grab leaders on their favourite features and building new products

Grab Editorial
. January 19, 2024 . Regional

Many tech experts have dreamt of making science fiction a reality. So did Grab’s chief product officer Philipp Kandal, who used to think that big advancements would come from futuristic tech like drone deliveries and autonomous vehicles.

But during his time at Grab, he found himself drawn to the small, thoughtful innovations that have made an impact in the lives of drivers, merchants and consumers [1:45]. 

In the second episode of Grab’s interview series, Kandal joins co-founder Tan Hooi Ling as they chat about their vision for tech at the company.  

Echoing similar sentiments to Kandal, Tan—who stepped down from her operation roles at the end of last year— says that the features that deliver the most value aren’t necessarily the hardest to build. [0:03]

(Watch ep 1: Q&A with co-founder Tan Hooi Ling on her leadership journey with Grab)

In fact, the app is able to run smoothly thanks to the many small but important building blocks—from indoor maps for driver-partners to get around malls to systems that can accurately predict the time it takes for merchants to prepare food. [2:00]

And the secret to rolling out a product that sticks? Expect to iterate, says Tan. [2:41]

If I told you I knew each time before we shipped it [a product], I would be lying through my teeth. And I don't think anyone truly knows because no one is representative of everyone.

Tan Hooi Ling, Grab co-founder

On the next big thing in tech, Tan says that it would be hard to ignore the potential of generative AI. But what it can do does not solely depend on its capabilities. Individuals, too, play a crucial role in steering how generative AI would shape the future. [4:13]

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Komsan Chiyadis

GrabFood delivery-partner, Thailand

Komsan Chiyadis

GrabFood delivery-partner, Thailand

COVID-19 has dealt an unprecedented blow to the tourism industry, affecting the livelihoods of millions of workers. One of them was Komsan, an assistant chef in a luxury hotel based in the Srinakarin area.

As the number of tourists at the hotel plunged, he decided to sign up as a GrabFood delivery-partner to earn an alternative income. Soon after, the hotel ceased operations.

Komsan has viewed this change through an optimistic lens, calling it the perfect opportunity for him to embark on a fresh journey after his previous job. Aside from GrabFood deliveries, he now also picks up GrabExpress jobs. It can get tiring, having to shuttle between different locations, but Komsan finds it exciting. And mostly, he’s glad to get his income back on track.