Transit Mode – sometimes referred to as Express Transit Mode – is a fast, efficient way to pay for public transit and public transport in many cities around the world.
Using a transit mode on your device avoids the need to authenticate with biometrics such as fingerprints or facial recognition when using supported trains, metros, trams, buses or other forms of transport.
This feature is provided by software on smartphones from most major manufacturers, including Apple, Google, Samsung, and more.
Names of Transit Mode on each platform
Transit Mode goes by slightly different names on each platform, with major platform names including:
- Apple iOS: Express Mode (formerly Express Transit Mode)
- Google Pixel: Express Transit Card
- Samsung: Transport Card or Transit Card
How to use Transit Mode
First, check that your local public transit operator supports Transit Mode.
For systems that support Transit Mode, such as London (United Kingdom) or Sydney (Australia), simply tap your phone as you would a contactless credit card or any other payment card.
Your phone will detect that this is a public transit terminal, and allow a payment without authentication that would normally be required for payments in stores.
For example on iPhone with Express Mode setup, there is no need to double-click the side button and authenticate with Face ID before tapping at the turnstile.