Costco buyers are frustrated, new digital cards do not apply to gasoline

Costco has finally launched digital membership cards, but they can not be used for a major element of the business: the essence.

The wholesaler made it to Instagram last week to announce that digital subscriptions are now available to members on the Costco app. The new feature offers users the ability to scan a QR code – rather than using a physical map at the store – on the latest version of the application on iPhone and Android mobile devices.

Despite the highly anticipated move to the digital card model, Costco buyers have been quick to point out its flaws, namely that the mobile card does not work with gas pumps and can not be integrated with Apple Wallet .

"Epic fails, can not have gasoline and its attendant refused to honor it.When will these companies learn that the early launch of technology still has an impact on their customers …", commented the user of Instagram @the_shapery.

Read more: 5 Reasons Why You Should Avoid Having Gasoline at Costco

Costco has posted various responses to dissatisfied commentators, directing them to the Frequently Asked Questions page.

"The fuel pumps are not yet set up to read the digital membership card, so your physical card will still be needed," the company wrote on Instagram.

Costco did not return the request for additional comment from Business Insider.

The incompatibility of the new digital card at the pump has become another hurdle for customers filling up at Costco petrol stations. For example, Costco stations do not currently accept cash payments and only accept Visa credit cards. In addition, they often have long, notorious lines and are not always easily accessible, depending on the region.

The fact that iPhone users can use Apple Pay in store also does not allow them to add the digital card to the Apple Wallet is another plus.

"At the moment, the digital membership card is only available in the Costco.com app," Costco wrote in response to a frustrated comment posted on his post. "However, we appreciate your comments and will be sure to forward your suggestions."

You can find additional information on the new digital membership card here.