Essential transport apps for Scottish commuters

WHETHER travelling by car, bus or rail, these apps are the easiest and most efficient way of getting around in Scotland

Uber has launched in Glasgow and Edinburgh this year. Picture: AFP/Getty Images

iShoogle

Despite its slightly clunky user interface, Glasgow Subway’s iShoogle app has been recently revised and allows users to check subway arrival and departure times, as well as their nearest station. Users can also register for a smartcard and qualify for ‘Upper Circle’ perks offered by shops and restaurants located near the city’s fifteen stations. Available on both the Apple Store and and Google Play, iShoogle is free to download.

Transport for Edinburgh

The Transport for Edinburgh app. Picture: Ian Georgeson

Another app benefiting from a recent revamp is Transport for Edinburgh, an update to the Lothian Buses app that is now compatible with the city’s tram network. M-tickets – a separate app – allow passengers to pay their fares digitally instead of rooting around for exact change, while the app also features push notifications to deliver real-time service updates to users. Like iShoogle, the TfE app is free to users of the two most popular smartphone operating systems, Android and Apple iOS, but it has no Windows Phone capability at present.

First Bus

As one of the country’s largest tranport service providers, First Bus has an app that is relevant across the United Kingdom. Offering the standard repetoire of e-tickets, a journey planner and service updates, the app has been criticised for sluggishness and occasional crashing across both its Android and iOS offerings. At least it’s free.

Uber

For better or worse, controversial taxi app Uber is taking root in Scotland – it has been rolled outin Edinburgh following an “overwhelming” response in Glasgow. Payment to drivers is made via the app and users can pick different categories of car dependent on the event or journey they require it for. For added security, users are given the driver’s name, car details and registration plate before the pickup is made. Uber is free to download and available on Google Play or the Apple App Store.

ScotRail

ScotRail has also got in on the transport app action with their eponymous digital offering, which offers transport updates, a journey planner and the opportunity to buy tickets digitally. The app has also spawned a spin-off called Snapp it, which will allow users to report good deeds and issues with ScotRail services. While Snapp it is not available just yet, the ScotRail app is completely free to download and available now.