Yandex GO now supports paying for rides on buses, trolleybuses, and trams, as confirmed by the company. Yaroslavl becomes the first Russian city to introduce this feature in public transport. The update integrates digital payments into the city’s transit system, simplifying daily commutes and offering a seamless fare experience. The change is expected to speed up boarding and reduce the need to carry cash, providing riders with a smoother journey as the service rolls out. This move fits into Yandex GO’s broader strategy to unify digital services for urban mobility, starting in a city that serves as a test bed for new transit technologies.
Riders can pay in two ways. A QR code scan inside the vehicle cabin or a Bluetooth trigger in the car enables the fare to be charged. For Bluetooth payments, users open Bluetooth on their phone, go to the transport section, choose the correct vehicle type, and confirm the fare. Both options guide riders to the proper transport mode and complete the fare without entering card details at the moment of payment. The system is designed to be fast and reliable, easing interactions during busy city trips.
Additionally, a pre-linked debit card is not required for this method. Funds are drawn from cards already associated with other Yandex GO services in the user’s account. This setup minimizes extra steps and keeps the payment flow simple for people who already use the app for maps, ride bookings, or other city services. All payments pass through the existing wallet with standard security measures protecting sensitive data.
Once a ticket is purchased, it stays in the Ticket section of the Yandex GO app for quick access and easy verification. The digital ticket can be shown to inspectors if needed and is ready for reuse on future trips. The design aims to reduce plastic passes and streamline travel by keeping everything in one place within the app.
The new travel payment feature connects with other city services offered inside the Yandex GO app, creating a more integrated urban experience. Looking ahead, the ability to buy tickets through Yandex GO is expected to expand to dozens of Russian cities, broadening access and convenience for more riders.