Zermatt introduces the smartphone ticket: Digital future in Matterhorn Paradise

Starting in summer 2025, access to the Matterhorn Paradise will be entirely digital for the first time: Thanks to the new SKIDATA access readers, which have been in operation since November 2024, the mountain experience can now be conveniently accessed via smartphone ticket – without the need for a physical keycard. A further step toward digitalization and user-friendliness.

In recent months, comprehensive tests have been conducted on the functionality, usability, and user experience of the smartphone ticket. Selected test groups moved around the area exclusively with the digital ticket and provided feedback via an online form. Various sources of error were identified and gradually resolved. In close collaboration with SKIDATA, the system has been continuously optimized to ensure stable and user-friendly operation. The digital ticket requires neither mobile data nor a constant internet connection – it even works in airplane mode as long as Bluetooth and GPS are active. The additional battery consumption of modern devices is around 10% per day, depending on the model.

Introduction starts – expansion follows

The smartphone ticket will be introduced in the Zermatt area for activities such as summer skiing, biking, and single rides. The digital ticket can also be used for season and annual passes, but this new ticket type is currently only available in the Zermatt area. The smartphone ticket – a simple, convenient, and forward-looking solution for all winter sports and mountain enthusiasts – was developed and implemented in constructive cooperation between the three service partners: Zermatt Bergbahnen, Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn / Gornergratbahn, and Zermatt Tourism.

How the smartphone ticket works

The smartphone ticket can be conveniently purchased online or at one of the sales points in Zermatt. Before first use, the digital ticket is scanned in the Matterhorn app  under the “Ticket” menu item and the “Smartphone Ticket” tab, and activated at the touch of a button on the day of use. The smartphone then communicates directly with the new sMove access gates thanks to Bluetooth Low Energy, opening them without having to remove the smartphone from your pocket. This new ticket type thus offers full functionality like a KeyCard – even in offline mode.

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