Android users can now use phones as virtual OPUS cards on Montreal transit

Android users on Montreal's transit system can now ditch their physical OPUS cards and use their phones instead, beginning July 21.

Through the Chrono app, riders can select "Purchase fares" and then "Virtual fares" to buy and validate transit tickets directly on their smartphone. The rollout applies to buses, métro trains, and Exo commuter rail. Exo passengers still need to validate their virtual OPUS cards at station validators before boarding.

The Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM) said in a statement: "In addition to the OPUS card, some customers with an Android device can now use their phone to access the public transit network in a simple and convenient way."

The feature arrives more than two years behind the ARTM's original timeline. The agency first announced plans to test the technology in 2021 and targeted an early 2024 launch before multiple delays. Apple iPhone support is expected in coming months.

The ARTM is also testing contactless debit and credit card payments on some Exo buses but has not announced a region-wide rollout date for that option.