Bytemark Inc. successfully introduced NFC ticketing on Apple iOS devices as part of its mobile ticketing offering. Creating an app-based NFC mobile fare medium on iOS has long been seen by the transport industry as the “Holy Grail” of mobile ticketing, according to the company.

The benefits are clear for agencies. They will no longer have to carry the burden and expense of managing physical fare media. Worn out cards, lost cards, TVM maintenance, and inventory management will all be consigned to the past. By making a cardless experience a reality, Bytemark is offering agencies the necessary tools to meet the demands of the connected traveler.

“Next year, next year, next year…how many times have we heard that about NFC coming to the market?,” said Micah Bergdale, CEO of Bytemark. “I am proud of the work our team has put into cracking one of the most publicized problems that NFC mobile ticketing has faced since its inception.”

The Bytemark offering can coexist with existing smartcards, EMV solutions and ticketing terminals.

However, unlike open loop solutions, account based ticketing does not require expensive EMV- and PCI-certified infrastructure. There are also no limits on fare types as it is compatible with child, senior, student, and other reduced fare programs, in addition to a standard adult fare.

This development comes swiftly after Bytemark’s UK subsidiary, ByteToken Ltd, demonstrated their groundbreaking Bluetooth ticketing solution in London. This patent-pending innovation makes it possible to open a fare gate or validate a fare without having to take your phone out of your pocket or bag. Breeze through fare gates or hop on board — the Bytemark app will handle the rest. The technology increases throughput speed and delivers a truly frictionless ticketing experience.