Hong Kong e-transport app for iPhone, Android

Travelers in Hong Kong may soon need nothing else than their mobile phones in getting to their destinations, after Hong Kong’s Transport Department released apps for mobile phones. Mobile phone users on the go can get possible route suggestions from the free mobile app, Hong Kong’s The Standard reported on Wednesday. At least for now, the app is available only for Apple Inc.’s iPhone, according to assistant commissioner (technical services) for transport Leung Tak-Fai. Leung said the app offers a “point-to-point search service" with map display for users to find their destinations. It also has a bookmark function for frequently visited places. The app provides estimated travel time and fares to make pre-trip planning easier. In some cases it even gives the fare, the Standard report said. Assistant government chief information officer Kenneth Cheng Kin said there are more mobile apps in the pipeline. “Hong Kong’s mobile market is very mature with a high usage of mobile phones," said Cheng. An Android version of the app is expected to be available this year or early next year, the report added. But for now, Android users with Internet access can access the website at http://hketransport.gov.hk. — TJD, GMA News