About a month ago, we reported that Mobike had waived their RMB299 deposit in 100 cities across the country, with Shanghai unfortunately excluded. Now, local citizens can also enjoy the benefit, according to The Paper.
On July 5, the shared-bike firm held a press conference in Beijing, announcing that their deposit-free service has extended to the whole country. In addition, they have developed a partnership with delivery service Meituan, so users can now unlock a Mobike with the Meituan app.
Image via Tech in China
How to Apply for a Deposit Refund via Mobike's Official App
Old users can find the page to apply for a refund in 我的钱包 (My Wallet).
Step 1. Select the 查看 (Check) button to continue.
Step 2. Click here to confirm.
Step 3. Here comes the tricky part. It seems Mobike is not ready to quickly let go of deposited funds, worth millions of RMB. When users are only one step away from having their money refunded, there is this advertisement about Mobike’s yearly pass (RMB100). The buy button is huge and highlighted. Ironically, the refund button doesn’t even look like a button at all. So, to avoid losing an extra RMB100, ignore the fancy button, and tap the words at the bottom of the page.
Step 4. Another trap alert! When users see this page, the refund request has been successful. Nonetheless, there is this button at the center asking users to purchase a monthly pass (RMB20). So, tap the 以后再买 (Buy Later) button and wait for your money to return to your bank account within 7 days.
Images via Sohu
“This is the first time an unconditional deposit-free policy has been introduced in the industry,” Li Yucen, vice president of Mobike, told The Paper at the press. “More than 200 million riders across the country can enjoy the benefit.”
As we reported before, the regulation will apply to new and old users alike. New users can download the official app and enjoy the service without any requirement; while existing customers can apply for a refund via their app. The money will be returned within seven days.
Image via Sina
At the press conference, Li also advocated more bike-sharing firms to follow suit and waive the mandatory deposit. Coincidently, ofo, another shared bike firm, recently discontinued their deposit-free policy in June and started charging a deposit fee of RMB199. “This feels like a knockout blow towards ofo. Not sure if ofo will ever get through this.” a netizen comments on The Paper.
That being said, ofo introduced its credit system two weeks ago, which is considered a sign of another deposit-free policy.
[Top image via Sohu]
