Bytemark announced that Metrolinx has selected the company to develop a mobile ticketing solution for its upcoming rail service, Union Pearson Express. In addition to a free mobile app, which will give UP Express riders the ability to buy and store rail tickets on their smartphones, Bytemark’s solution will support ticket sales both online and onboard.
“Bytemark is excited to bring its mobile ticketing technology to Canada’s busiest transportation hub. We’re pleased UP Express selected Bytemark as a partner and look forward to simplifying transit in Toronto while expanding our mobile ticketing offerings worldwide.”
Bytemark will release the app in spring 2015, shortly before UP Express becomes operational. After downloading the free app to their smartphone, riders can purchase e-tickets that generate custom QR codes and can be stored on their phone. Conductors will be able to sell, print and validate tickets onboard using the 120+ handheld devices Bytemark will deploy. Additional features, including the ability to purchase tickets online via travel sites such as Expedia and Kayak, will also be part of Bytemark’s custom-built solution.
Micah Bergdale, CEO of Bytemark, said: “Bytemark is excited to bring its mobile ticketing technology to Canada’s busiest transportation hub. We’re pleased UP Express selected Bytemark as a partner and look forward to simplifying transit in Toronto while expanding our mobile ticketing offerings worldwide.”
The app will mark the first mobile ticketing solution for Toronto-area transit and Bytemark’s first mobile ticketing solution outside of the United States. UP Express is a $456 million project that will connect Union Station in downtown Toronto to Toronto Pearson International Airport. Once operational in 2015, an estimated 5,000 daily travelers will enjoy convenient, reliable and rapid service in a relaxing and stress-free atmosphere.
