Smart, secure mobile payment solution allows users to authenticate payments with iris scanner technology
Samsung Electronics today announced that its mobile payment system, Samsung Pay is available in the UK on devices including the Galaxy S8 and S8+. Secure and easy to use, with the option to use the Galaxy S8 and S8+’s iris scanner technology to authorise payments, Samsung Pay enables users to make purchases almost anywhere contactless debit cards or credit cards are accepted.
“Following the launch of the Galaxy S8 and S8+ earlier this year, we are thrilled to be introducing another innovative service to our latest flagship devices, reinforcing our commitment to making people’s lives easier,” said Conor Pierce, VP, IT and mobile division, Samsung Electronics UK and Ireland. “We hope the UK launch of Samsung Pay will transform the way our customers pay for day-to-day items, giving consumers a safer, smarter mobile wallet.”
Samsung Pay is designed to make paying with a device safe, simple and convenient. With each separate transaction, Samsung Pay uses an encrypted digital token to replace sensitive card information to prevent fraud. Users can use the Galaxy S8 and S8+’s iris scanner to authorise payments, or a registered fingerprint or PIN on other compatible devices, so they are in complete control when each payment is made. The encrypted information is stored in a separate, secure area of the device. Samsung’s Knox security platform provides real time kernel protection and monitors malicious software and activities on the device for added security.
Samsung Pay will continue to expand its partnership ecosystem to provide greater flexibility, access and choice for customers in the UK. Currently, Samsung Pay supports major payment networks including Mastercard and Visa and cards issued by MBNA, Nationwide and Santander, with more partners including American Express, first direct, HSBC and M&S Bank joining soon.
Commuting across the capital will also be easier than ever with Samsung Pay. Users will be able to pay as you go on London buses, Tube, London Trams, DLR, London Overground, TfL Rail, Emirates Air Line, River Bus and most National Rail services in London.
Samsung has worked with TfL on exclusive functionality for Samsung Pay that allows users to set a payment card up as a ‘transport card’ to use on all TfL services and most National Rail services in London, simply by tapping their phone against the card reader, eliminating the need to wake your phone or verify with a fingerprint or PIN.
Users will also be able to upload their loyalty cards at selected merchants across the UK, to accumulate and redeem points (subject to store policies).
Samsung Pay is available at launch on the Galaxy S8/S8+, S7/S7 edge, S6/S6 edge (subject to a software update) and will become available on additional devices in the coming months.
