New York recently updated its payment system for subway fares, allowing the use of Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, making it much easier to get around the city without needing to carry a MetroCard. For those with a Smartwatch, it’s even easier, as the wearables can be used to trigger payment too. The move is part of the One Metro New York (OMNY) scheme that "will eventually combine fare payments and ticketing across subways, buses, paratransit, and commuter rail."
The OMNY payment system rolled out to some areas in the first half of 2020 and was expected to be completed ahead of schedule in October, but the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) halted the installation of the new contactless payment system in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. OMNY accepts several forms of payment, including credit, debit, and prepaid cards that have NFC capability, smart devices such as the iPhone and Apple Watch via Apple Pay, and Android phones and smartwatches that have Google Pay, Samsung Pay, or Fitbit Pay enabled.
The OMNY contactless fare payment system is now available for all New York subways and bus lines. This means many smartphones and smartwatches can be set up to make buying fares quicker and easier. To use the contactless payment systems from Apple, Google, Samsung, or Fitbit, users may want to open the appropriate app before approaching the terminal to select which card or bank account to pay with and may need to unlock their device before tapping. The traveler then brings the device within an inch or two of the OMNY reader to quickly authorize payment. The system has been working well so far with generally favorable comments.
Compatibility & What’s Next?
With contactless payment available throughout New York subway and bus lines, travelers have a simple option to facilitate a quicker and safer ride. Using compatible devices or cards not only means it's possible to move through the transport system more quickly than otherwise by using the readers, but it also offers a touch-free process that benefits hand hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
At some point in 2021, the OMNY card will become available, allowing the ease and safety of contactless payment for those that may not own smartphones, smartwatches, or tap-enabled credit or debit cards. Expanded fare options are coming soon also, with reduced fees for seniors and riders with disabilities. A refresh of the OMNY website and mobile app are in progress, as well. Now that New York is using the new OMNY readers, work will move on to Metro-North and LIRR with those areas expected to get the OMNY system in 2022. The plan is to phase out the old MetroCard by 2023.