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How Smartphone Revolutionizes Commuters Lives
Technology has changed the way we live in many ways.
14:31 05 October 2020
We can see its influence in the way we work, do business, socialise, and many others. The focus of this article is the impact which smartphones have on commuting. Over 27million workers in the UK make their way to places of employment every day. The London train system caters to 5million passengers each day. With over 79% of adults in the UK owning a smartphone, there has to be a point of confluence somewhere. Below are some areas we have seen the smartphone revolutionizing the way we commute.
Mobile Payments
In many parts of the world, there are massive train stations which millions of passengers go through every day. Trying to get a ticket in these stations can be a nightmare. Train authorities have adopted mobile ticketing technology where you can use your smartphone. NFC technology allows commuters to pass through the subway lines. It is a novel method of wireless data transfer. You do not even need an internet connection, bringing you more convenience.
Taxi Hailing Apps
The last decade has seen the rise of taxi-hailing apps. These mobile applications have made catching a taxi a convenient experience. Commuters enjoy cheaper fares and professional drivers. Back in the day, you had to call a taxi on your phone. There was no guarantee that you would get the one closest to you. This means you had to wait for long periods before getting a ride. With hailing apps, you can see where the driver is, and the expected ETA. You can even share a ride with other commuters, which makes it cheaper all round.
Communication
Just because you are on your way home does not mean your business has to stop. Instead of burning through an hour of looking out the window, why not get some work done? Smartphones allow you to catch up on the latest news while catching a ride home. You can respond to emails or plan out the busy day tomorrow. You can also add to your overall workday by completing some tasks while waiting for the bus.
Entertainment
Waiting for a late flight can be a boring experience. If you have ever got your flight cancelled, you know exactly what we are talking about. You need something to cover that three-hour gap before you get another one. Mobile devices can also be a great way to combat boredom while waiting for a delayed train or during the long journey home. Reading a book, listening to a podcast, listening to music or reading the latest financial news are just some of the possible pastimes. Many people these days enjoy playing at casinos not on Gamstop when theyr’re traveling. You can find plenty of good options through casinosnotongamstop.me. You can even stream the latest live football game that started before you got home. It makes for a more entertaining commute, and the distance will be that much more tolerable.
Safety
Smartphones have made the night commute home a lot safer. The phones that most people are using today have GPS. You can install apps on the phone that make it possible for loved ones to know where you are all the time. They can view your location from their phone, as long as you have it with you. You can even set a panic button where messages will be sent to your preferred contacts to alert them that you are in trouble. They can then prompt the authorities and help will reach you quicker.
Map Apps
It is great how you can confidently go to an area you have never been to before. You need not ask for directions, your map app has got you covered. Even when you are driving, you get updated route information from a friendly voice telling you to turn right or left. This is the navigation assistant built into the map app to help you get around. Some apps on offer today even give you rewards for minimising traffic congestion by leaving your vehicle at home or not driving during rush hour. This means not only is your ride less expensive and quicker, but you also get rewarded.
Camera Apps
This last point may seem surprising, but it is one of the most important ways in which smartphones have supported commuters. A quick survey online shows that there are many instances of rail rage. This is a blight on the lives of commuters and should be exposed. Previously perpetrators would walk away scot-free. But now with smartphone footage, those who engage in it know that someone is always watching and that serves as a deterrent.