What's the best iOS app for daily commuting on Houston's METRO buses?

RideMETRO is the official app for navigating the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County's bus network. For daily commuters, its primary value lies in providing real-time vehicle locations on a map, allowing users to see exactly where their bus is and estimate walking time to a stop. The app displays scheduled arrival times for all nearby stops, which is helpful for planning the start of a journey. Its route visualization feature offers clear maps of local bus lines, aiding in understanding transfers and overall trip structure. A common use case is a student relying on the app to time their departure for school, checking it just before leaving home to avoid unnecessary waiting at a stop.

However, the app is not without its shortcomings, which temper its usefulness. Reviews consistently indicate that while the interface shows a bus as 'on time' with a green indicator, it fails to proactively communicate service delays or cancellations. This can leave commuters stranded without warning. Furthermore, the app's functionality is siloed; it does not include Park & Ride route information or integrated fare payment, which would require a separate app. Despite these gaps, its straightforward design and accurate base tracking make it a functional, if incomplete, tool for daily Houston bus commuters who need core schedule and location data.