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In addition to the other commenters phone rebuttal, for only £3 you can buy a fob that seems to work much like an oyster card for the bike system. I can't say I've tried them yet, but if it allows auto-top up like oyster, seems more convenient than even a smartphone app!

https://tfl.gov.uk/modes/cycling/santander-cycles/register-f...

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The key is free if you get the £90 yearly membership. The membership was some of the best money I spent since I came to London.

I've used it, but it's another thing to carry around (admittedly small) and since you usually need the phone anyway for maps and availablity, I think I prefer the phone based QR system. Also it's a downside from a tourist's perspective.

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