Quick Answer
Yes, Ticketmaster tickets can still be scanned even if your phone screen is cracked. The barcode on the mobile ticket is still readable as long as the crack does not run directly through the barcode. As long as the venue’s scanner can still detect the barcode, you should be able to enter with a cracked screen.
Explaining Mobile Tickets
Ticketmaster has transitioned to primarily using mobile tickets rather than paper tickets for events. When you purchase tickets through Ticketmaster, they are delivered to you electronically and placed in your Ticketmaster account. You can access them via your account through the Ticketmaster app or website.
The mobile ticket has a unique barcode that the venue can scan to verify your ticket. As long as your phone screen is still functioning and the scanner can detect the barcode, you’ll be able to enter, even with some cracks on the screen.
Why Cracked Screens Don’t Affect Scanning
Barcode scanners work by using lights and lasers to detect the white and black lines on a barcode. As long as there is contrast between the white and black lines for the scanner to detect, the barcode can still be read.
Cracked phone screens typically do not significantly impact the visibility or contrast of the barcode lines. Unless the crack is directly running through the barcode, interrupting those lines so they cannot be read, the scanner should still be able to pick up the barcode.
Tips for Scanning Tickets with a Cracked Screen
If your phone screen is badly cracked, here are some tips to ensure a smooth ticket scanning process:
– Preview your ticket in your Ticketmaster account and zoom in to check that the barcode is still intact and readable. Look for any major cracks running through the barcode itself.
– Bring a backup form of your ticket, like a print-out or downloading to your smartwatch or another mobile device. This way if your cracked screen ends up not scanning, you have another option.
– Arrive early in case there are any issues with scanning. Give yourself and the venue staff extra time to scan your cracked screen ticket.
– Politely explain to staff your screen is cracked in advance. They may need to adjust their scanner angle or try a few more times to successfully read your barcode.
– Increase your screen brightness all the way before scanning. This helps the scanner detect the barcode contrasts. Dimming your cracked screen can make the barcode harder to read.
– Keep your phone stable and still while staff scans your ticket. Avoid shaking or moving it which could disrupt the scanning.
– If staff is unable to scan the barcode, calmly ask if they can manually enter the ticket number under the barcode. This is usually possible as a backup option.
The Cracked Screen Scanning Experience
Here are some real life experiences of people scanning Ticketmaster tickets with a cracked phone screen:
Sarah said:
“My screen cracked really badly two days before a concert I had waited months to attend. I was worried they wouldn’t let me in with the messed up screen. But as soon as I explained to the staff member, she oriented the scanner and was able to read the barcode after a few tries. Don’t panic if your screen cracks before an event, just arrive early in case you need some extra time!”
James commented:
“I’ve scanned in with a spider web-shattered screen with no problems. The staff member chuckled when they saw my screen and said it happens all the time. As long as you can still make out the barcode and zoom in on it, these scanners are pretty good at reading them accurately.”
Lindsey responded:
“I dropped my phone and the screen went completely white except for the barcode area. Thankfully that was still visible and readable by the scanner. It took a couple tries but we got it to scan properly and I didn’t miss the concert! Just be prepared it may take some extra time if your screen is badly damaged.”
Key Takeaways
– Ticketmaster mobile tickets can still be scanned even if you have a cracked or damaged phone screen. The barcode is usually still readable unless the cracks are directly covering it.
– Arrive early to events in case your damaged screen takes some extra time to scan. Politely explain your situation to staff.
– Consider bringing a back up ticket option in case your cracked screen can’t be scanned. Having the ticket number to manually enter is helpful too.
– Make sure to zoom in and preview your ticket barcode before arriving to check it is intact. Increase screen brightness and hold phone steady for scanning success.
The Bottom Line
Don’t panic if you crack your phone screen before a Ticketmaster event. In most cases, staff will still be able to scan your ticket barcode and grant you entry, even with a damaged screen. The scanners are designed to read barcodes in less than ideal conditions. While a cracked screen can present some extra challenges, as long as the barcode is intact, you should be able to successfully scan it and enjoy the event you paid for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still scan a cracked phone if part of the barcode is damaged?
In most cases, you should still be able to scan a ticket even if part of the barcode is obscured by a phone crack. Barcode scanners can typically piece together the intact lines and interpret the barcode accurately. However, if a significant portion of the barcode is covered or damaged beyond recognition, you may run into issues scanning.
What if my entire screen is blacked out except for the barcode?
If your screen is fully blacked out or damaged except for the barcode area, in most cases it can still be successfully scanned. As long as the barcode itself retains enough contrast and visibility for the scanner to read it, it being isolated on an otherwise blacked out screen will not prevent scanning.
What if my cracked screen distorts or warps the barcode image?
Extreme cracking or damage can sometimes warp and distort the barcode image on your screen. This can make it trickier for scanners to interpret. However, in most cases with minor distortion, scanners are still smart enough to read the barcode correctly. But significant distortion increases the risk of scanning issues, so have a backup ticket option ready.
Can I transfer my ticket to another device if my screen cracks?
Absolutely. If your phone screen cracks, you can easily transfer your Ticketmaster ticket to another device as a safer option. Log into your Ticketmaster account online and resend the ticket to an undamaged device. As long as you have ticket proof of purchase, you can transfer between devices right up until showtime.
What if my screen cracks right before the event when it’s too late to transfer tickets?
Don’t panic! Even if your screen cracks last minute, you still have options. Try your best to scan your cracked screen ticket as is. If that fails, politely explain the situation to staff and ask if they can manually enter the ticket numbers listed below the barcode. With proof of purchase, venue staff can usually handle last minute cracked screen issues.
Scanning Ticketmaster Tickets with Various Types of Phone Damage
Here are some common phone damage issues and chances of scanning Ticketmaster tickets in each scenario:
Type of Damage | Ability to Scan Ticketmaster Ticket |
---|---|
Small cracks and dents on screen | High chance of scanning, may require a few tries |
A few large cracks but barcode intact | Still likely to scan, may need steadying the phone |
Spiderweb shattering covering most of screen | Still possible to scan if barcode is visible |
Chunks of screen missing but not on barcode | Can scan unless scanner beam is blocked |
Barcode physically damaged or warped | Unlikely to scan unless damage is very minimal |
Barcode fully obstructed by cracks/damage | Will not be able to scan |
Troubleshooting Tips for Scanning Difficulties
Here are some troubleshooting tips if you are having trouble scanning your Ticketmaster ticket because of a damaged phone screen:
– Remain calm and politely ask staff for help or suggestions. They want to help you successfully enter.
– Offer to show additional proof of ticket purchase if needed for verification.
– Try scanning at different angles, distances or under different lighting. Moving the scanner or phone slightly can help.
– Ask if the venue can manually enter your ticket number instead. Have your ticket number ready.
– Use an alternate barcode scanning device if one is available instead.
– As a last resort, call Ticketmaster Support to explain your situation and see if they can contact the venue to assist or provide a new barcode.
– If you have a paper printout of the ticket, this can serve as a backup option in most cases.
Remaining courteous but persistent if a scanner is having trouble reading your damaged screen can usually result in a positive outcome in time for you to enjoy the event.
Preventing Future Scanning Issues
Here are some tips to avoid running into damaged screen issues when scanning tickets in the future:
– Add a protective phone case and screen protector to minimize damage risk.
– Be extra careful handling your phone around event time. Consider keeping it safely in a bag until scanning.
– Purchase AppleCare or insurance for screen repair/replacement if damaged. Sign up as soon as you get a new phone.
– Back up tickets to an alternate device or print paper copies as a foolproof backup if your phone cracks.
– Download your ticket to your phone’s wallet for quick access even if the screen is damaged.
– Bookmark your Ticketmaster account login so you can easily transfer tickets to another device if needed.
Taking protective and proactive measures can reduce chances of a cracked screen derailing your event plans. But even with a damaged phone, Ticketmaster tickets can successfully scan in most cases.
Conclusion
Despite being a common smartphone issue, a cracked phone screen will rarely prevent you from scanning mobile tickets from Ticketmaster successfully. Unless the damage directly obscures the barcode, most venue scanners are sophisticated enough to read and interpret the ticket details. While some extra effort may be required compared to an undamaged phone, you can feel confident that minor cracks or dents won’t lead to you missing out on a great event experience. With some patience and the right troubleshooting techniques, you can get through the ticket scanning process and enjoy the show.