More features are needed on mobile rail apps for them to succeed, according to Rail Passengers and Apps: What Next? research carried out by watchdog Passenger Focus.
Passengers involved in the research were aware of the different apps available, but said they found it hard to tell the difference between them. They felt improvements in look and usability would make them more appealing.
Feedback suggested that passengers wanted off-line access to apps, as well as a back-up when there is no network coverage, and to be able to use their smartphone as a ticket if possible.
Passenger Focus Director David Sidebottom said: “Apps are becoming more popular, but passengers are not particularly excited about rail apps. The industry must continue to make them better and also generate interest by ensuring apps actually make travelling by rail much easier.
“However, it is also important to remember that not everyone uses smartphones and apps. Traditional ways of providing passengers with information and support from staff must continue alongside new technology.”
Noam Bleicher - 07/02/2015 10:10
Too right. The best apps in the world are as much use as a chocolate teapot when the 3- or 4G signal drops. Network coverage in this country is atrocious outside town centres, and often on rural sections of extremely busy main lines. On the Cherwell Valley you can only get a signal when with sight of the M40, which indicates exactly how clueless our network providers are.