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VeriFone, Sprint launch payments, info service on NY taxis
Electronic payment services provider VeriFone's US-based taxi business, VeriFone Transportation Systems (VTS) has teamed up with mobile operator Sprint to launch a wireless payment and information service for New York City taxis.
As part of the partnership, over 6,600 NYC taxis have been equipped with a real-time integrated payment and information system, powered by Sprint Mobile Broadband and Sprint Data Link, enabling secure credit card transactions. NY taxi users can pay by credit card, as well as access GPS-based location and mapping, weather updates, national and New York City entertainment and city news.
The system comprises a Passenger Information Monitor with a 10.4-inch touch screen, designed to enable passengers to review the fare, add a tip and pay by swiping a credit card through a reader or using tap-and-go contactless payment. The system also features programming from several providers, including WABC-TV's local news, AccuWeather, Reuters Business News, celebrity news site People.com, Disney Broadway, Zagat Survey and PMbuzz.com.
Additionally, it integrates a GPS component that helps passengers recover items accidentally left in cabs. Sprint's business services partner Direct Communication Solutions worked with VTS and Sprint to alter the Mobile Broadband connection card to fit and operate with custom software in the modified touch screen monitor.DCS currently manages the connection card inventory, handles card modifications and software updates, and assists VTS and Sprint with installation and activation in taxis. Sprint and VTS plan to extend their joint service to taxis in Philadelphia, Chicago and Las Vegas.