So to break it down:
NFC payment coming in 2020, and wouldn't really work in the US until recently because of low market penetration
Bill changers???? Huh why? How is this a good thing, just use whatever bill you want or your debit card at the ticket machine.
Line maps are in still in some stations, but weren't doing well in customer surveys supposedly, so we got huge interactive touch screens with maps, directions and POI
Doors would be lovely, but is complicated by the age and the non standardness of the system
Real time status is already on many lines,
Major MTA stations have far larger video displays for ads, don't worry that is covered.
Vending machines aren't common, but whole stores and libraries are.
Driverless would be wonderful. The union hates the idea though. Some of the train lines almost could be driver less at this point (or at least not require two people)
All modern-ish cars have next station signage.
Video ads on the cars themselves have been on NYC subways at various points, but haven't wide buying. In all honesty, There might not be room for them in the current form, the cars are already a tight fit at times.
Wifi would be great
Corner seats not being used is just silly, using and relinquishing is a better use of space.
Do we need a sign pointing to the door opening side?
Moving walkways that eat up into precious corridor space? Pass. (Seriously imagine the tunnel of death at Times Square with two wheelchair fitting areas blocked off, not fun)
Oh we could save a bit on electricity on our escalators.
For all the fancy lines and maps, the author couldn't find the exit. Something that is rather tricky in an NYC subway station.
So yeah, it is different, but this is surface level nonsense for the most part, much of it is in some or even most of the system.