Riding the Shanghai Metro is about to get a lot more convenient.
Following a successful implementation in Beijing, Shanghai has begun adding ‘smart technology’ into its subway payments. The major upgrade to the automatic fare collection system will allow users to scan a QR code at the turnstile and pay for the ride with their phones. No Metro ticket or public transportation card required!
According to the Shanghai Metro Transit Club, you'll soon be able to download an app and link it up to your Alipay or UnionPay account. (No WeChat yet, unfortunately). From there, you can simply scan yourself in to enter any station — including the Maglev stop.
It's not clear exactly when the new system will be rolled out, but the fancy new smart turnstiles have already been installed and tested at some stations:
This is certainly a long overdue development, especially if you're prone to losing your Metro card.
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