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(TriMet)

You step on a MAX platform and wonder when the next train is coming, but the digital screen showing arrival times is on the blink. Don't despair. Don't curse. As of Monday, that real-time data is showing up automatically on Android smartphones.

TriMet and Google have activated an array of low-energy wireless beacons at the agency's 87 light-rail stations to seamlessly beam the notifications to nearby commuters.

TriMet is the first U.S. transit agency to use the Google BLE technology, which competes with Apple's iBeacon. Google installed the Bluetooth transmitters at Portland area train stations last week at no cost to TriMet.

"Our riders are very tech savvy, and we're pleased to be able to offer another way to provide transit information in an easy format," said Tim McHugh, TriMet's chief information officer.

Of course, many - if not most - train commuters will be unable to use the new service, since it isn't compatible with devices using Apple's ubiquitous iOS devices and works with only Android phones using newer 5.0 and Lollipop systems. Android users with the latest version of Google Maps installed are also "eligible to receive the notifications," TriMet said in a statement.

Here's how it works: The beacon automatically connects with your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, causing an alert with the station name to pop up on your home screen. Tap the notification and your phone will give you detailed arrival information about approaching trains.

"As we test the technology," said TriMet spokeswoman Mary Fetsch, "we'll also look to refine the design of the beacons and their placement on the platforms."

TriMet did not say whether it plans to make the beacons compatible with Apple devices, which are used by more than half of the commuters accessing the agency's mobile ticketing app, according to server data.

"Google Maps is working to support the technology for iOS users too," Fetsch said, "but no further details are available at this time."

-- Joseph Rose

503-221-8029

jrose@oregonian.com

@pdxcommute