Vodacom in collaboration with Mastercard has launched VodaPay Masterpass, which enables Vodacom customers to load any bank card into a secure digital wallet downloaded as an app on their smartphone
Once loaded, these cards and the secure credentials associated with them are safely stored, enabling the customer to start transacting immediately without the hassle of entering these details each time they make a purchase.
Vodacom customers can purchase prepaid data, airtime and SMS or voice bundles directly through the app. They can also select the menu option “pay bills” to settle their DStv account, pay a utility bill, or take care of traffic fine.
With the “Scan to Pay” functionality, users can scan a quick response (QR) code to pay for goods and services wherever Masterpass is accepted, including all SnapScan and Zapper merchants. Once a QR code is scanned, the user selects the card they want to use and enters their bank PIN number on their own device to complete the transaction.
Mariam Cassim, chief officer Vodacom Financial Services, said beyond the development of innovative digital payment solutions, the broader Vodacom Financial Services strategy is focussed on the delivery of solutions across insurance, lending, savings and investments.
“As digital wallets gain popularity, we realise the need to offer our customers solutions that will enable them to adapt to the future of commerce. With so many of our customers now using smartphones, it makes sense to make it easier for them to pay for airtime and data, and conduct a wide range of payments at their favourite merchants - all from a single app,” added Cassim.
Mark Elliott, division president, Mastercard, Southern Africa, commented, “The positive uptake of Masterpass by retailers, and consumers are indicative that digital payments are growing in popularity, as more and more people embrace a digital lifestyle.”
