How audio data from your smartphone will allow you into live events without queues

Within a few years, Australian concertgoers will be admitted into live events based on audio data from their smartphones.

The “smart tones” will pick up who the user is, confirm they have a mobile ticket, and literally green-lights them past venue doors.

It will cut down on queues to enter a show, or the need to use paper tickets that have to be checked or scanned via a QR code or a barcode,

Ticketmaster has already started piloting the Presence scheme in 32 venues in North America.

But it says that it will take up to four years to globally roll it out completely.

The technology was developed by Cincinnati-based ultrasonic audio technology firm Lisnr, which set up in 2012.

To tap into the technology, users must download an app, which must be opened as they approach the venue.

Scanners installed at the event detect audio signals sent out by the app between 18.75 kHz and 19.2 kHz – frequencies which are inaudible to 90% of people.

It will turn the smartphone screen “green” and digitally tick off to gig security that the user can go through.

The Presence system allows promoters and venue staff to send personalised messages to each patron when they are in the venue.

It also cuts down ticket fraud as each ticket is linked to a specific person, specific account and specific phone.

Justin Burleigh, EVP of product for Ticketmaster North America, said that with Presence’s digital technology, “venues and content owners can now connect directly to someone attending an event to foster personalized fan engagement, simplify the ticket management experience, protect against fraud, and enhance security.”

Moving forward, Lisnr and Ticketmaster plan to extend the sound technology whereby patrons can buy food and drinks from their seats without waiting in line.

Lisnr sound technology has previously been used by department stores for security reasons, and Jaguar tested it as a key substitute which would alert the car as the driver approaches, and allow them to change seat settings and climate control.