Apple Pay Express Mode Launches in Greater Manchester’s Bee Network
Public transport in Greater Manchester just became faster and more convenient thanks to the launch of Apple Pay Express Mode. The feature is now available across the Bee Network, allowing passengers to pay for bus and tram journeys without unlocking their iPhone or Apple Watch. This update has sparked a lot of interest among commuters searching for quicker, more seamless ways to travel, and Apple Pay Express Mode is designed to deliver exactly that. By enabling payments even when your phone battery is critically low, the system ensures you won’t get stuck at the gates.
What is Apple Pay Express Mode?
Apple Pay Express Mode is a payment feature built specifically for public transport systems. Instead of needing to unlock your device with Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode, you can simply tap your iPhone or Apple Watch against the card reader and go. This makes journeys faster during peak hours and eliminates the stress of holding up the line while unlocking your device. First introduced in London in 2019, the feature is now expanding to other UK cities, with Greater Manchester being the latest to adopt it on a large scale.
Beyond speed and ease, Express Mode works with Power Reserve. This means even if your device battery is nearly dead, you still have a few hours of functionality to pay for your ride. For busy commuters, students, and visitors navigating the city, this offers an added layer of reliability.
Why Greater Manchester’s Adoption is a Big Deal
Greater Manchester is the first integrated public transport system outside London to adopt Apple Pay Express Mode. The Bee Network has already been at the forefront of innovation, introducing “tap and go” contactless payments earlier this year. That initiative alone led to over one million contactless journeys per week, showing the demand for faster, easier ticketing options. By adding Express Mode, Manchester takes a major step toward building a future-proof transport system that rivals the best in Europe.
This rollout also demonstrates how cities are embracing digital-first solutions. For passengers, it reduces reliance on physical tickets or cash, while for the transport system, it improves efficiency and reduces bottlenecks at boarding points. It’s a win-win situation that reflects broader trends in urban mobility and smart payment integration.
How to Set Up Apple Pay Express Mode on Your Device
Getting started with Apple Pay Express Mode in Manchester is simple. Users can head to the Wallet app on their iPhone, select their debit or credit card, and enable it under “Express Travel Settings.” Once this is set up, the chosen card becomes your default payment method whenever you tap into buses or trams. For most people, Apple Wallet will automatically assign your primary payment card to Express Mode, but you can easily switch it if needed.
This setup ensures that you don’t have to fumble with your phone during boarding. Whether your hands are full with bags, you’re in a rush, or your phone battery is almost drained, the system guarantees a smooth payment process. The flexibility of choosing and changing your card adds to the convenience, making it a reliable everyday travel solution.
The Future of Contactless Travel in the UK
The introduction of Apple Pay Express Mode in Manchester signals a broader shift toward modern, tech-enabled travel experiences in the UK. As more cities follow in London and Manchester’s footsteps, travelers can expect public transport to become increasingly seamless and unified across the country. The focus is on reducing friction for passengers while keeping transit systems efficient, accessible, and ready for the future.
For commuters, the convenience of Apple Pay Express Mode is more than just a tech upgrade—it’s a practical improvement that saves time, reduces hassle, and ensures reliability even during those last few percentage points of battery life. As cities continue to invest in smarter transport systems, features like this are set to become the new standard in how we move around urban spaces.
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