The latest iOS (11.3 ) updates allow users to add the "Metro Card" feature to their Wallets and top it up without installing any pesky apps. Supported devices include iPhone 6 and above, plus Apple Watch. Click through to see how.

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Before the iOS update was released, the Metro Card feature only worked for Android devices, and Alipay and Union Pay users that installed Metro大都会 or 上海交通卡 app, which wasn't that convenient because it requires you to have a Chinese ID and you need to scan a QR code when you use it.

Now in iOS 11.3 (and watchOS 4.3) you can simply add a Metro Card to your Wallet portfolio and then transfer your balance from your physical metro card to it, or top up with Union Pay. The metro cards that are transferable are the purple ones (with a serial number starts with "U"). To add the card to your Wallet: "Rest the top of your iPhone on the middle of the transit card. Leave it on the card without moving it. This process could take a few minutes to complete." Instructions here.

No more QR code hassles! This update also allows you to use the card without unlocking your phone/ watch! It even works without internet!

This virtual card operates pretty much the same as the physical one; you can use it on buses, ferries, and maglev. Technically it should work on taxis, too, but it's not very stable yet. And you can only top up with Union Pay bank card, as it currently doesn't support credit cards. Moreover, while transferring balance from your physical metro card, you'll need to transfer the balance all at once.

Apple's metro card also charges 20rmb refundable service fee. Like the physical one.

This feature also works for Apple IDs registered in America, and available not just in Shanghai but Beijing as well. According to tech blogger @williamlong, more cities will be supported in the next update, such as Jiangsu, Shenzhen, Wuhan, and Chongqing.