# Third Rail: NYC Transit ETAs — Delayed train? We can help.

> NYC subway arrival estimates with real-time delay predictions. (iPhone/iPad app by Ugly Computer.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/third-rail-nyc-transit-etas/id6760941150 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Ugly Computer](https://appshunter.io/developer/1886942407)
- Category: Navigation
- Price: Free
- Rating: 5.00/5 from 5 App Store ratings
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 17.0 · 88 MB
- Released: 2026-04-09
- Data updated: 2026-08-19
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/third-rail-nyc-transit-etas/id6760941150/reviews.md

## What is Third Rail?

Third Rail predicts when your train will actually arrive at a station, down to the exact second. Sick of delayed trains? The model also detects if a train might be late, and forecasts a range of likely arrival times.

This might sound like just a minor improvement, but the tangled layout of our city's transit often provides many routes to get from one place to another. I've found that when I know which route might have a delay, I often save significant time.

• Private by default: Third Rail does not automatically collect your location data for analytics and advertising purposes. Our server never even sees your location to get directions. (See the privacy policy for details.)
• No service between stations? No problem: If you've got the app open and you lose cell signal, you can continue to view realtime arrival info for any train in the system.
• Independently owned and designed in NYC

## Key features

- Arrival estimates with delay forecasting
- Second-precision arrival times
- Works underground without service
- Station-specific u-turn information
- Location data stays on device


## Frequently asked questions about Third Rail

### What makes Third Rail's arrival estimates different?

Third Rail forecasts potential train delays and displays arrival times as a range (e.g., "5–9 minutes away") instead of a single estimate. This helps users anticipate potential lateness and plan accordingly.

### Can I use Third Rail without a cell signal?

Yes, you can view arrival times for any NYC subway station, even when you are underground between stations and do not have service. This ensures you always have access to critical transit information.

### Does Third Rail show if a station has free u-turns?

Yes, a small icon in the app indicates which stations do not allow free u-turns. This feature helps commuters avoid unexpected issues when navigating the subway system.

### Is my location data safe with Third Rail?

Absolutely. Your location data never leaves your device when using Third Rail. The app prioritizes user privacy and security for all its features.

### How accurate are the arrival estimates?

The app provides arrival estimates with second precision, such as "25 seconds" versus "90 seconds." This level of detail is crucial for commuters trying to catch a train, especially when waiting times are long.

### What is the age rating for Third Rail?

Third Rail has an age rating of 4+. This indicates it is suitable for a wide range of users, including younger individuals who may be navigating the subway system.

### When was Third Rail last updated?

Third Rail was last updated on April 9, 2026, coinciding with its release date. This suggests it is a new application with recent development focus.

### Does Third Rail have ads?

No, Third Rail does not contain advertisements. The app is completely free to use and does not display any ads, providing an uninterrupted user experience.

## Version history (last 2 releases)

### 1.1 — 2026-08-18

- Added a small compass that always points uptown
- You can now tap on a train to list future stations it will arrive at
- Reduced network usage

### 1.0 — 2026-04-09

No release notes.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-08-19.*
