Pilot program would pull the plug on NYC Taxi Television

A few New York City taxis may lose the TV screens that riders love to hate.

I would surmise that a full removal will follow this program, as literally no one has ever said, “You know, what I just can’t get enough of is Taxi TV”.

The program will slowly replace the screens with new technology from four different companies into up to 1,000 cabs around the city, according to The Guardian. That’s why it wants to test out a new high-tech smartphone or tablet system that would allow riders to pay without having to listen or watch Taxi TV.

The TLC said the TV function has not been popular with customers or drivers.

Drivers and riders are seeking more information about the possible systems. In addition, they say, the mind-numbing tape-loop programming isn’t all their fault.

The TVs were originally introduced between 2006 and 2008 as a way to update passengers with news and public announcements, double as a payment system, and to ease the boredom of a long taxi ride.

Before the new systems can be used in cabs, they will be tested by the commission against hard-wired meters, to ensure they produce the same pricing range, Gordon said.

The pilot program, which will run for up to a year, will begin when the commission approves the first proposed design for testing in cabs.

The devices will include GPS-based meters that will record distance and calculate fares that may be less expensive to operate than a traditional taxi meter. It received regular complaints from passengers and drivers, the TLC wrote in the resolution they voted on.