It's twofold. One, they want some way to notify you back when your charge session is nearing completion, or if you get unplugged unexpectedly. Two, they want the data on your usage individually identified, so they can sell/mine it.

They really should just call your phone, I can't think of a single other long-wait activity that forces you to install spyware. Oil changes, doctor / dentist appointments, furniture delivery, etc. They all just give you a call

Many people don't want to give their SMS-capable number to a random charging station in another state. I don't mind giving my number to my doctor, but a charging station is a different risk profile.

Frankly I’d rather install an app on my iPhone than give the company my phone number. At least with an app I can deny location, contacts, and all other access.

What makes you think that company XYZ will let you use their app if you deny location, contact, etc. access?

From a security point of view, that seems insane.

Just because you want a call doesn't mean everyone else does.

I'd much rather have an app notify me than an automated phone call, I (and most people I know) probably wouldn't even pick it up.

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I can uninstall an app, I can't ungive someone my phone number.

To each their own! I can not stand having random apps installed on my phone. They all eventually turn into notification spamming spyware. I get spam phone calls all the time anyway, have the charging station call / text me and leave me a message instead

Ok that is a good point, optional app integration is sensible.

They really should have a card reader option. Personally I don’t mind an app if it was a unified app across all chargers. Having to download a new app, enter card info, personal info etc just to use a charger once while away from your regular area is super annoying.

I think they are optional in general, but often more reliable. These locations are unstaffed and often directly exposed to the elements. The cardreaders don't seem to hold up well.

They should be able to accept contactless cards only, without a PIN. Plenty of contactless-card vending machines (drinks etc) and ticket machines (train tickets etc) in Asia and Europe cope with the weather.