Ultrasounds coming from smartphones could replace paper tickets in the near future

Have you ever wondered how paper tickets are still around when we live in a mostly digital world? Maybe the appropriate logistics are not there. But how is this possible when we have smartphones and all sorts of networks? The people over at Ticketmaster think their ticketing system could easily replace the paper-based one with ultrasonic audio signals that can transfer data from a smartphone to a specialized receiver set up in venues.

Ticketmaster has been working together with Lisnr on this project, and they claim this new technology could greatly benefit the customers, as the entry to events would be faster while the organizers could see reduced fraud, plus some trees are spared.

Lisnr has already integrated similar technologies for Jaguar Land Rover in order to identify specific drivers and personalize the interior of a car by adjusting the seat and climate control. The data-over-audio technology patented by Lisnr uses “Smart Tones” in the ultrasound 18.7 – 19.5 KHz frequencies to send data over a network of compatible devices. Organizers can place special receivers all over there venues, so they can also track the exact position of each customer and send them personalized messages.

Ticketmaster also intends to include features that would allow customers to buy tickets without the need of a credit card or NFC. The company plans to roll out the technology worldwide in the next four years.