Why can you not get a digital version of the Public Services Card

[Brendan Burgess]

I often go out without my wallet as I can pay for everything with my phone.

If I want to use public transport, I have to bring my physical card with me, or pay for it.

Is there a good reason why I can't put it on my phone?

Brendan

 

[Dr Strangelove]

The short answer is that people in charge of public procurement are highly risk averse because they are afraid of being hauled in front of the PAC for a mauling for overspend.

They prefer to buy old, reliable technology that’s been used elsewhere.

 

[elcato]

It wouldn't suit the current age demographic as most grew up and schooled without technology.

 

[Leper]

The card ain’t that heavy, just remember to bring it with you every day. That’s what I do.

 

[Brendan Burgess]

It wouldn't suit the current age demographic as most grew up and schooled without technology.

But I am not suggesting replacing the physical card. Just offering the additional digital version.

 

[Annieindublin]

A digital leap card would be good too… I suspect the transport side is the limitation

 

[Towger]

This is for the Travel Pass? It would probably cost 100+ million to implement. The old wayfarer machines run on 40 year old technology.

 

[mathepac]

Just offering the additional digital version.

The HSE are touting this for mobile devices

Its not much but its a start I suppose and might be a candidate for travel passes etc.

I'm afraid to ask does anyone know how much the current version cost and what enhancements might cost.

I agree with Brendan, having to remember to bring the phone AND the wallet is a pain.

 

[Des Pondent]

I often go out without my wallet as I can pay for everything with my phone.

If I want to use public transport, I have to bring my physical card with me, or pay for it.

Is there a good reason why I can't put it on my phone?

I can’t answer your specific question.

I keep my PSC card with FT in my phone case, no wallet then needed.

 

[Brendan Burgess]

I keep my PSC card with FT in my phone case, no wallet then needed.

I probably need a phone case so.

 

[Fortune]

They prefer to buy old, reliable technology that’s been used elsewhere.

More accurate if you leave out "reliable"

 

[Cervelo]

I probably need a phone case so.

You could alternatively get a silicone card sleeve that sticks to the back of your phone or protective case
I found this great when cycling in Spain where you are supposed to carry an identification card with you at all times
It's also great when you are traveling as somewhere to key your hotel room key card

 

[bkenn14]

you could alternatively get a silicone card sleeve

Have you found a version that actually holds the cards in securely,

 

[Monbretia]

I probably need a phone case so.

I was wondering why you didn't just stick it in the phone case! My phone case has replaced my wallet/bag totally since Covid, it holds cards/driving licence/money/my current Dunnes money off voucher, there is even a paint sample card in there at the moment and I think a lotto ticket I must check!

 

[Cervelo]

Have you found a version that actually holds the cards in securely,

Yes, that's the one I'm using since I installed it on my phone in October 21'
In fairness some cards do seem looser then others but not to the point that it would slip out unaided by a hand
It's great for when you don't want or need a wallet with you but need to carry a card of some description, train ticket or other small card like object

 

[euroDilbert]

If I want to use public transport, I have to bring my physical card with me, or pay for it.

Is there a good reason why I can't put it on my phone?

It will probably happen as part of the contactless payments changes. However, from previous experience, this could take quite a while.

Contactless payments on Dublin Bus may not be available until 2028

Contactless payments on Dublin Bus and other forms of public transport may not be available until 2028, according to a report published by the National Transport Authority (NTA).

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