Commuters who run out of battery, have more than one device, or receive a call as they try to pay could get stuck at gates and face penalty fares

Transport for London has warned tube, train and bus passengers paying with Apple Pay on iPhones and Apple Watches not to let their batteries run flat or they could get stuck at gates and face penalty fares.

TfL advises users that, as with other smartphone payment systems including EE’s Cash on Tap, Apple Pay only works if a device has power. It warns that, if the battery runs out in the middle of a journey, a user will not be able to tap out, which means they could be charged a maximum fare.

When you use Apple Pay on the underground but your sweaty post-tube fingerprint doesn't scan. Then the meltdown. AND THE SHAME. #neveragain

Have to say apple pay is slower than contactless card due. Especially noticeable at tube barriers. Why touchID for small transactions?

I've tried Apple Pay on the tube a few times today and it is far too slow to thumb authorise. I feel i'll anger commuters.

@charlesarthur at this moment in time card seems a better option there...