Google Wallet will soon support digital ORCA cards and allow for contactless payment via Android-powered mobile devices. That will save many Puget Sound transit riders the need for a physical ORCA card.
Mobile payments have been a highly anticipated feature since the new ORCA system launched last year. Google will have the distinction of being the first entrant into the ORCA mobile payments arena but won’t be the last.
In an announcement on Thursday, Google said that the company would support mobile fare payments in hundreds of transit markets across the globe. Prominently featured in the announcement was a digital ORCA card on an Android phone and Wear OS watch. The mockup of the digital cards also showed a valid monthly pass, available e-purse balance, and recently logged trips. Wallet users will be able to instantly create a virtual ORCA card and add funds and passes — all through the app.
Maps, a well-used mobile trip planning tool by Google, is also offering fare payment integration. When using the transit trip planning function, riders will be notified of applicable fares and have the option of paying via Wallet.
