Metro to Test New Gates to Eliminate Paper Fare Cards

Metro is testing a new way to pay fares – with your smartphone – but that means keeping your smartphone out, which police generally advise against.

The new fare gates have targets riders can tap with their smartphones or credit or debit cards.

“If you’re aware when you’re using your smartphone – you’re using it, you’re putting it back – or you’re aware of your surroundings, I think it’ll work just fine,” a Metro official said.

But the fare gates are made by Samsung and are not yet Apple iPhone compatible, though Metro says they will be.

The following stations will get the new fare gates in January: Ballston, Bethesda, Eisenhower Avenue, Farragut West, Gallery Place-Chinatown, Navy Yard, Pentagon, Pentagon City, Shady Grove and Suitland.

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