MicroSD Powers New U.K. Mobile Wallet (July 23, 2013)
July 23, 2013
A new smartphone-based prepaid wallet launching in the U.K. will enable iPhone and Android users to pay for in-store purchases via tap using NFC technology. First launched in the U.S. last August, the Paybefore Award-winning moneto digital wallet is a joint venture between Kalixa Group, DeviceFidelity and MasterCard. The wallet is powered by the issuing, processing and acquiring technology behind Kalixa’s KalixaPay prepaid MasterCard, while NFC capability is provided by using a combination of MasterCard’s MasterPass technology and patented iCaisse microSD technology from Texas-based DeviceFidelity. The wallet initially is available for iPhone 4 and 4S models, and soon will be compatible with iPhone 5 and Android-based mobile devices. Further expansion into other European countries is set for the coming months.
“The U.K. is one of the fastest-growing prepaid markets in the world and is a leader in terms of NFC and contactless acceptance at the point of sale,” noted Ed Chandle, CEO of Kalixa Group. “By enabling iPhone users to make smart, simple and secure NFC transactions we are taking an enormous step towards making mobile money an everyday reality for consumers.”
The wallet is compatible with all mobile service providers and comes with a companion EMV prepaid MasterCard that enables users to withdraw cash at ATMs, shop online and make in-store purchases above the £20 (US$31) limit for contactless payments in the U.K. and at retailers that do not accept contactless payments.
