ScotRail has today announced the launch of an innovative mobile ticketing pilot.

Rail customers in Scotland will soon be able to buy, store and use tickets directly from their smartphone using a pioneering mobile ticketing app.

Developed by technology specialists, Rambus Inc, the new all-in-one solution is built into ScotRail’s existing app and enables customers to skip the queue at ticket vending machines by purchasing and downloading tickets directly to their smartphone.

And using Android’s NFC functionality, customers can ‘tap’ through ticket gates using their phone – removing the need for paper tickets and plastic Smartcards.

The rollout of the new innovative app will be phased in over the coming months. Popular single and return tickets – which make up over 60 per-cent of ScotRail ticket sales – are the first products available to a selected number of pioneer customers using the pilot app, with a wider rollout to all customers planned in future.

ScotRail Commercial Director Lesley Kane said:
“This pilot app delivers the convenient, easy access to tickets and travel that we know our customers want.

“Over the coming months, customers will be able to buy and download digital tickets from a single app, anytime, anywhere.

“With the rollout of new trains and station upgrades right across the country too, this is a really exciting time for Scotland’s railway as we continue to build the best railway this country has ever had.”

Rambus Ticketing Vice President and General Manager Russell Mccullagh said:

“Delivering a modern and innovative transport experience that customers can rely on is a key driver for smart mobile ticketing.

“We’re delighted to combine our expertise developing and deploying high-volume ITSO-based ticketing systems, through our Nevis Technologies joint venture, with ScotRail’s drive to provide a truly seamless and leading-edge travel experience.”