Goodbye Telepass, the smartphone will communicate with the toll booth
Italy's Telepass system will soon be replaced by MobiQ, a smartphone-based method for toll payments.
After decades of reliable service, the Telepass device fixed to car windshields is being replaced by a new technology called MobiQ, which allows smartphones to handle toll payments more efficiently. The Telepass system, which was the first in the world to enable toll payments without stopping, debuted in Italy in 1989 during the World Cup and has been a staple in Italian travel ever since.
MobiQ represents a significant advancement in technology, moving away from the traditional Telepass and similar systems like UnipolMove and MooneyGo. Developed by a US company that is part of the Japanese group Denso, MobiQ promises not only convenience but also a streamlined travel experience for users, as it integrates seamlessly with smartphones, making them the only necessity for highway travel.
As we embrace this innovative technology, it reflects a broader trend of increasing digitization in our daily lives. The shift from physical devices to smartphone applications showcases how consumer habits are changing and how companies must adapt to provide solutions that meet modern demands. With MobiQ on the horizon, drivers in Italy can expect a more efficient and contemporary toll collection system soon, marking the end of an era for the beloved Telepass.