The Halifax council recently made some upgrades to its transit system, with a new proposal with four payment possibilities. These include "reloadable plastic cards, limited-use smart cards that come with a designated amount of rides, a mobile app, and tapping credit or debit cards."
The new plan allows users to purchase tickets or passes through an app on their smartphone. A large, virtual ticket will be then be displayed on their mobile in which they can use in lieu of a paper transfer. These tickets can be activated, after purchasing, without data or Wi-Fi. Eventually, the plan will feature automate mobile ticket validation and "a tap-to-pay system using just a credit or debit card."
The new transit payment plans hope to be cash-free by 2025, however, accessibility is still being addressed for those without a bank card of mobile phone.
Image Credit: Robert Short/CBC
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Smartphone Transit Payments
- The trend of using smartphones to pay for public transportation is disrupting traditional payment methods and creating new opportunities for mobile payment technologies.
- Mobile Ticket Validation
- Mobile ticket validation is a growing trend that is making public transportation more efficient and convenient, with opportunities for further advancements in automation.
- Cash-free Transit
- Cities around the world are moving towards cash-free public transportation systems, creating opportunities for mobile and alternative payment technologies.
Sectors Adopting This
- Mobile Payment Technology
- Mobile payment technology companies are positioned to capitalize on the trend of using smartphones to pay for public transportation and the shift towards cash-free transit.
- Public Transportation
- The public transportation industry is ripe for disruption and innovation, with opportunities for companies to create new and more efficient ways to handle ticketing and payments.
- Banking and Financial Services
- As cash-free transit becomes more prevalent, there is a growing need for alternative payment methods and banking services for individuals who do not have bank cards or mobile phones.
