A new UK mobile payment solution says it’s being adopted by at least five major financial service providers.
Later this year Zapp will be integrated into the mobile banking applications offered by HSBC, First Direct, Nationwide, Santander and Metro Bank, giving it access to over a third of all UK bank accounts (potentially 18 million users).
As well as offering simpler online purchases by smartphone, the Zapp service can also be used as a secure ‘wallet’ when shopping on a separate computer. In addition, real-world purchases in shops can be made via the customer’s smartphone.
Around 60% of UK merchants being able to take advantage of Zapp payments, thanks to partnerships with payment providers including WorldPay, Optimal Payments, Realex and SagePay.
The company behind Zapp is VocaLink, whose technology powers the Bacs and Direct Debit schemes as well as connecting 65,000 LINK ATMs.
Peter Keenan, Chief Executive of Zapp, said, “I am truly excited to announce our lead financial institution partners: HSBC, first direct, Nationwide, Santander and Metro Bank. Together with our already announced acquirer partnerships, Zapp will go to market with real scale offering simpler, more secure and efficient payments to millions of customers and businesses. I am delighted that these financial institutions and acquirers have chosen to innovate to deliver value to their customers, lead the market and deliver huge benefit to the UK economy.”
Availability of the Zapp service is due in the autumn.