Massive disruption: cell phone parking app in Vienna has been out of service for 24 hours!

Massive disruption: cell phone parking app in Vienna has been out of service for 24 hours!

In Vienna, a massive disruption in the “Mobile Parking” app is causing dissatisfaction among drivers. As of Thursday, June 12th at 1:45 p.m., the popular app is no longer functional. Users report a login error that makes logging in impossible despite correct data. The operators, A1 Telekom Austria AG, are working hard on a solution, but so far there have only been shaky positive signals from the technical departments. My district reported on this in detail.

It looks like users are at a loss: It is not possible to redeem the digital parking ticket via the app. But there is at least a way out: If you want to book the parking ticket without the app, you can do so by sending an SMS to 0664 660 0990. To do this, however, you must first register a “Handyparken” account. An example of SMS booking would be something like “30” to park for 30 minutes, or “30*W49593A” to book the same period with a specific license plate.

Range of functions and alternatives

Parkers should know that the option of topping up credit for Paybox customers via SMS remains, which brings some relief to the situation. A look at the problems with the “Mobile Parking” app shows that they are not just caused by technical errors. According to experts, this can also have other causes, such as network problems or incorrect settings on the smartphone , according to the website problems.app.

Parking apps usually offer many advantages: Parking is billed by the minute, users can pay for parking time from anywhere and receive push notifications that warn if the parking time is exceeded. Automated billing in parking garages with cameras is also a refreshing solution. At the same time, the current disruption raises questions about the reliability of such digital systems. In times of broken parking machines, it is therefore advisable to always have some change ready for emergencies , as the ADAC notes.

The look ahead

How long the disruption to the “Mobile Parking” app will last remains uncertain. The lack of a uniform app for all of Austria, as well as for many other countries, highlights the difficulties that users face on a daily basis. Although the use of such apps has increased in recent years, a reliable solution is still a ways off. Drivers should therefore consider alternatives and not rely too much on digital solutions. Looking outside the box at other parking app providers could also open up new opportunities.

It remains to be hoped that A1 Telekom Austria AG can resolve the problem soon so that Viennese drivers can enjoy their usual comfort again. Until then, secure your parking ticket in good time - whether digitally or via SMS.