South Australia launches new apps to improve public transport

South Australia has launched three new smartphone apps and revamped its Adelaide Metro website to deliver better customer service via its public transportation networks, in the wake of COVID-19.

Replacing the unpopular metroMATE app — rated just 1.6 out of 5 in the iOS app store and 2.1 out of 5 in Google Play — the new apps will offer a number of additional features, designed to simplify and expedite journeys.

The Moovit app — rated 4.5 out of 5 — combines real-time data to give commuters the fastest route, an audio alert when their stop is approaching and a countdown display of stops.

The NextThere app — rated 4.6 out of 5 — displays departure information at a tap, allowing users to save favourite trips and filter by stop, destination or route.

Additionally, the Transit app — 4.4 out of 5 — shows real-time arrivals and step-by-step directions, and helps find new routes using buses, trains and trams.

The Adelaide Metro website — one of the state’s highest trafficked websites with more than 3 million users and 50 million-page views annually — will also be simplified, with fewer clicks required to access relevant information.

Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll said the upgrades would provide a more user-friendly service, in response to the AHPPC’s Principles for COVID-19 Public Transport Operations.

“By providing better, faster and more accurate information we are empowering public transport customers to make better decisions about their journeys, providing a better service,” he said.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Iryna