Top park-tech trends to watch for in 2025

Parking payment apps have transformed how drivers find and pay for parking, replacing cash and ticket machines with a seamless digital experience. These apps provide real-time availability, flexible payment options, and automated time tracking, reducing stress and making parking more efficient.

Key features & benefits: 

• Convenient: Find and pay for parking without searching for meters or carrying cash.
• Flexible payments: Supports credit cards, mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, and pre-paid accounts.
• Pay-as-you-go: Many apps allow users to start, stop, or extend parking sessions remotely, eliminating overpayment.
• Navigation integration: Directs users to available parking spots, reducing congestion.
• Clear pricing: Displays tariffs upfront to avoid any surprises.

In Australia, PayStay offers a seamless digital parking experience with real-time availability, flexible payments, and a user-friendly design that makes managing parking effortless. With features like a real-time parking locator, automated zone detection, and contact-free digital payments, PayStay enhances convenience for drivers while supporting smarter urban mobility. 

For visitors and occasional parkers, contactless payment solutions and guest parking platforms provide a frictionless experience. Instead of downloading an app, users can simply scan a QR code or tap an NFC-enabled virtual meter to pay. 

Key features & benefits: 

• Quick access: No app download or account registration required. 
• Multiple payment methods: Usually supports Google Pay, Apple Pay, and credit cards, including Click to Pay. 
• Transparent pricing: Displays total costs upfront, including any transaction fees. 
• Instant receipts: Digital receipts provide easy record-keeping. 

Designed for short-term parkers, PayStay Guest offers a simple, app-free way to pay for parking via QR codes or NFC-enabled virtual meters. With no sign-up required, it ensures a smooth experience for visitors and travellers.

Traditional parking meters are being replaced by digital solutions that integrate seamlessly with urban environments. Virtual meters provide the same functionality while reducing street clutter and maintenance costs. 

Key features & benefits: 

• Space-saving: Eliminates bulky physical meters, preserving urban aesthetics.
• Contactless payments: Tap-and-go functionality using NFC or QR codes.
• Low maintenance: Operates independently of mains power and network connections.
• Data insights: Helps councils optimise parking management.

Metro Touch N Go is an example of a virtual parking meter that blends into the urban landscape while offering a seamless payment experience. Its energy-efficient design ensures continuous operation without reliance on external power.

Smart parking sensors are transforming urban mobility by providing real-time insights into parking availability. These sensors help drivers find parking faster while enabling cities to optimise space usage and reduce congestion. 

Key features & benefits: 

• Reduced congestion: Guides drivers to available spaces, minimising time spent searching. 
• Durability: Designed to withstand tampering and harsh environmental conditions. 
• Remote monitoring: Allows for updates and recalibration without on-site maintenance. 
• Data-driven decisions: Helps councils refine parking policies with real-time insights.

Sentinel sensors provide valuable parking data, helping councils manage occupancy efficiently while improving the driver experience. Designed for reliability, they operate seamlessly in all conditions, ensuring cities have the insights needed to create smarter parking environments.

Physical parking permits are being replaced by digital permits, streamlining the process for both drivers and councils. These solutions eliminate paperwork, reduce administrative burden, and provide a more efficient way to manage permit applications, renewals, and enforcement. 

Key features & benefits: 

• Convenient access: Apply, renew, and manage permits online anytime, anywhere. 
• Seamless integration: Works with enforcement systems for instant validation. 
• Flexible options: Supports residential, visitor, and business permits. 
• Eco-friendly: Reduces paper waste and simplifies record-keeping. 

ePermits offer a hassle-free way to manage parking permits, with a self-service portal that enables users to apply, renew, and update permits in real time. Designed for councils, the system automates compliance and integrates with enforcement tools, ensuring a smooth, efficient permit management experience.

In 2025, parking technology will continue to prioritise convenience, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making. These innovations not only enhance the driver experience but also help councils optimise urban spaces. By adopting smart payment apps, virtual meters, and real-time data solutions, cities can create a seamless, efficient, and future-ready parking ecosystem.