I'm not surprised that so many people in Singapore are up in arms about the upcoming transition to the new SimplyGo-powered cards over the good old EZ Link.
The problem? The new cards show neither the fare nor the balance remaining on the card at the gate.
Now, it may seem like a small issue and LTA has been defending itself that you can always check these using the mobile app or machines located at MRT stations.
But the nature of progress is making things better not worse.
The excuse cannot be that the new system is designed in such a way that it would take several seconds to display the information that was previously available instantly.
That's not an acceptable explanation by any stretch of the imagination – least of all in A.D. 2023, in a city-state that prides itself on being one of the most modern in the world.
It's hard to believe that it is beyond human technological capabilities to design a solution that would do as little as merely retain the old functionality.
It is technically possible to remotely drive a truck on the other side of the world with minimal lag but it's not possible for commuters in Singapore to see how much they're paying for a ride? Really?
Nobody is buying this.
The way the company is explaining SimplyGo reminds me of a Tesla, or any electric car for that matter.
EVs represent a new technology that has tons of useful advantages over petrol cars: instant torque, quick acceleration, silent operation and so on. But they have one major drawback – they can't go as far and refuel nearly as quickly as petrol cars.
And that's a deal-breaker for most people.
As long as electric cars are unable to match that basic functionality, they're going to remain a niche for those few who don't care as much.
Similarly, it's very nice that SimplyGo app offers centralised control over multiple cards, allows you to check your balance and how much you spent on past fares, set up push notifications on your phone etc.
All of that is lovely, modern, functional, great. Kudos.
But it also killed a feature that was very useful for many users, who are now asking - why are we denied what we're used to? What are we getting in return?
In ageing Singapore many elderly are not tech savvy and will face issues accessing the app. One screen they could always get an update about their card on was the one at the gate. Not anymore. So why have screens there at all?
(EDIT: Clarification. Concession card holders, who did not update to SimplyGo, will still see the fares and balances at the gates, for the time being. So seniors should still be fine.).
But even for younger people – in fact for all people – the ability to see if you're low on balance was very useful, as it reminded you to top up soon.
Actually, I'm sure it has helped to smooth the flow of people through MRT, because we were made aware that we need to top up next time we want to take the train, so we don't get bounced off the gate.
How many more of us will now be surprised when it refuses to open and we are forced to frantically try to top up the card to take the next ride?
If no solution is found then while the current outrage about it may die down with time, it is going to remain an enduring bad impression on the LTA going forward, as millions of Singaporeans are reminded of the glaring oversight every single time they swipe their "new" cards to use public transit.
