Launches SDK to support third party apps that work with PayPass NFC readers.
MasterCard is pushing hard to move its PayPass contactless set-up into the mainstream. It says 441,000 physical locations in 41 countries now accept contactless payments.
But it's fair to say take up has been modest so far.
Now, it's hoping the creativity of mobile developers can help nudge it into the mass market.
Thus, the new Mobile MasterCard PayPass User Interface Software Development Kit (UI SDK) for Android and BlackBerry OS 7 is free to license and available globally.
It describes the SDK as comprising as "a programmer-friendly set of functions that make it easy for application developers to rapidly deliver payment apps to consumers – without having to become smart card programming experts."
MasterCard has also streamlined the UI approval process so that customers can quickly bring a Mobile MasterCard PayPass service to market.
Ideally, all this will prompt developers to build apps that build in some kind of contactless payments check-out.
MasterCard is clearly hoping the rising number of NFC-equipped phones will flip consumer behaviour. It says there are over 70 models already approved as Mobile PayPass compatible devices.
“Consumers are gaining comfort and familiarity with mobile and contactless payments, requiring the financial institutions and mobile network operators that offer these services to ensure a consistent and positive experience,” said Mung Ki Woo, group executive of mobile at MasterCard.
“As we continue to lead the industry with mobile and contactless payments innovations, we saw an opportunity to simultaneously help our partners and improve the overall user experience. Our first-ever UI SDK provides smart tools and makes it easier for our partners to issue a complete contactless payment solution on mobile.”
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