Bytemark Inc. through its UK subsidiary ByteToken Ltd., and in conjunction with Thales Nederland B.V., successfully developed and delivered app-based mobile ticketing, payment, and validation capabilities for Rotterdam’s public transport operator, RET (Rotterdamse Elektrische Tram).

The successful completion of the project now allows passengers to purchase tickets through an app on their smartphone, paying with iDEAL or credit card, for travel on tram, bus, BOB bus, Fast Ferry, and Metro. The application uses Bytemark’s patented visually validated ticketing and National Dutch UIC 918-3 2D barcode ticketing standard.

The rollout complements major investments by RET in gate hardware and software upgrades from Thales Nederland B.V. designed to improve the passenger experience and reduce the need to queue for tickets. Importantly, this new mobile capability will now make it possible to add further exciting developments to the app, such as joint venue ticketing.

Mobility is being revolutionized by mobile apps that greatly simplify transactions between commuters and transit agencies with as few touch points as possible — making it possible for passengers to access important information more directly and quickly, and to exponentially improve the convenience for those taking public transportation in the future.