Mastercard Forgoes The Card With A Wave Or Smile In Biometric Payments

Ever realized you’d forgotten your wallet at home while already in line for the checkout? Now, with Mastercard’s new Biometric Checkout Program, you’ll never have to fumble for your purse or smartphone ever again.

In fact, the new technology is so intuitive, you’ll be able to make payments just with a smile or wave. Another benefit? Much quicker checkout lines, especially when you’re in a rush. 

According to the company, the first-of-its-kind technology will establish new ways to pay at stores worldwide, from major department stores to mom-and-pop shops down the street. 

Naturally, despite 74% of consumers having a positive attitude towards biometric technology, some may still be uncomfortable with their facial data being used and stored. 

With a set of standards in place for banks, merchants, and technology providers to adhere to, Mastercard plans to roll out the new payment system in a way that ensures the security and privacy of users’ personal data.

To access the feature, customers will have to enroll in the program in-store or at home through a merchant or identity provider app. Once you’ve registered, you’ll now be able to check the receipt, smile into the camera, or wave your hand over a reader at checkout to finalize your payments.

The first pilot of the system will be rolled out in Brazil with supermarket chain St Marche, allowing five of its stores to enroll customers’ face and payment information through the Payface app. Future tests are planned for the Middle East and Asia.

“The way we pay needs to keep pace with the way we live, work, and do business, offering choice to consumers with the highest levels of security,” said Ajay Bhalla, President of Cyber & Intelligence at Mastercard.

“Our goal with this new program is to make shopping a great experience for consumers and merchants alike, providing the best of both security and convenience,” he added. 

[via CNBC and Mastercard, images via Mastercard]