NYC Compost 4+

I’ve been using this on an iPad and found it reliable. Don’t forget to use the foot pedal on the bin, this is the best way to open the bin. At first I was using the handle, until I noticed the food pedal. Occasionally the apps or the bins don’t behave right, but you can go to another bin down the street and presto it works. Spend some time studying the app and check out your local bins. I can’t be sure whether the app requires Wi-Fi, but it does want Bluetooth. The 86th and 2nd bin is great because there is a free Wi-Fi nearby via Linksys, and this kicks in for me…

I was ridiculously excited to see one of these bins in my neighborhood, then skeptical (typical New Yorker) of whether this program would work as well as it should. As it turns out, it works great. See whether your bin is available or full, open it without trouble using the Bluetooth connection. Three bins within walking distance of my home, never full, available 24/7, accepting of all types of food scraps—the perfect combination for easy composting. No issues whatsoever with the app after several weeks of use.

Love this so excited to see but there are some bugs in the app. I was able to use the bins a few times but it suddenly stopped unlocking the bins. I’ve deleted and downloaded again a couple times but the bins around the neighborhood weren’t unlocking. But I’m looking forward to the improvements still keeping compost bags and will try a few bins the neighborhood before giving up!