Apple Pay: Your Subway Savior or Satan?
Let's talk about the burning question on every New Yorker's lips (or at least those who don't chew gum while riding the subway): Can you actually use Apple Pay to navigate the labyrinth of the NYC subway system? Well, buckle up, because I'm about to spill the tea (or rather, the subway grime).
OMNY Goodness!
The answer is a resounding YES. You can, in fact, wave your iPhone or Apple Watch like a magic wand and poof you're through the turnstile. It's called OMNY, and it's basically the subway's version of a contactless payment system. So, ditch that crumpled dollar bill and embrace the future (or at least a slightly less sticky present).
How Does This Magical Feat Occur?
It's simpler than figuring out the G train schedule. Just add your credit or debit card to your Apple Wallet, hold your device near the OMNY reader, and voila! You've successfully avoided human interaction and potential germ exchange. It's like a little victory every time.
But Wait, There's More!
OMNY isn't just for subway rides. You can also use it on buses and the Staten Island Ferry. It's like a one-pass to conquer the city. However, don't expect it to work on the Staten Island Railway just yet. That's a whole different level of transportation challenge.
Express Yourself (Transit)
For those who are really into efficiency, there's Express Transit. With this feature, you can skip the Face ID or Touch ID step and just tap your phone to go. It's like having a VIP pass to the subway, but without the velvet rope. Just be careful not to accidentally tap someone else's way through. That could get awkward.
FAQ: Apple Pay and the Subway
How to set up Apple Pay for subway use?
- Add your credit or debit card to your Apple Wallet.
How to use Apple Pay on the subway?
- Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the OMNY reader.
How to use Express Transit?
- Enable Express Transit in your Wallet settings.
How much does it cost to use Apple Pay on the subway?
- The fare is the same as paying with cash or MetroCard.
Can I use Apple Pay to buy snacks at the subway station?
- Not yet, but fingers crossed!