Commuters Can Use Mobile Wallets To Swipe In At New “Tap-And-Go” Turnstiles

Beginning on Friday, May 31, commuters from over a dozen subway stations and buses will be able to use the new “tap and go” systems at select station and all Staten Island buses.

Earlier this year it was announced that the new system, OMNY (One Metro New York), would roll out in May and the time has finally come. Under this new system, commuters will be able use contactless credit, debit, or reloadable prepaid cards along with “your mobile phone or wearable” (aka Apple Pay or Google Pay). 

The new OMNY technology will only allow for full-fare, pay-per-ride capabilities until all stations (including the Staten Island Railway and buses) are upgraded. For now, those looking to try out the new system will find the new additions along the 4,5, and 6 lines between Grand Central and Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center and all Staten Island buses. 

MetroCards will still be available until the phase-out process is completed, which is expected to happen in 2023. According to the release put out by the MTA, cash will not be accepted for OMNY at first, but they intended to keep cash as an option to access public transportation even after the MetroCards are done away with. They also added a guide for riders to determine whether or not they have the contactless payment features, and how to get it:

• Your own contactless card
  • Most banks and financial institutions already started issuing contactless cards. Contactless cards have this symbol on the front or back:

• • If you don’t have a contactless card, you can request one from your bank or financial institution.
• Your own smart device
  • Link your preferred payment methods to a digital wallet on your mobile phone or wearable.
  • Many digital wallets can be used with OMNY today.

Find out more about the OMNY readers here.

featured image source: Google Pay

Also published on Medium.