The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City has launched a new contactless payment system across its entire subway network. Now, commuters can use smartphones, smartwatches, and contactless bank cards to pay for their rides, eliminating the need for physical metro cards.
This modernization effort, part of MTA’s broader digital transformation plan, is expected to improve the passenger experience by reducing congestion at turnstiles and simplifying fare payments. The contactless system also enables faster boarding, reducing delays during peak hours. To ensure accessibility, the system supports payments from multiple providers, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
The MTA aims to phase out traditional metro cards entirely by 2026, in line with New York City’s commitment to becoming a “smart city.” This initiative not only enhances convenience but also aligns with MTA’s goals of reducing waste and promoting digital inclusion.
