Semble, a feature-packed mobile wallet for New Zealanders, is now available for download nationwide.
Several companies in the local financial technology and communications space formed a collaboration to conceptualize and design the product. The group consisted of payments network, Paymark, mobile network operators, 2degrees, Spark and Vodafone, and banking partners, ASB and BNZ.
“Other mobile wallets have launched around the world, but Semble is the first to present a united front, with many industry leaders working together,” said Rob Ellis, CEO of Semble.
A compatible Android NFC-equipped device and a Semble-ready SIM package are the prerequisites needed to use the digital wallet. After creating a secure 5-digit PIN, individuals can start entering their payments information in the app.
The authentication process requires a user to first select his or her bank from the interface and connect to the relevant banking platform, where eligible credit or debit cards can be downloaded. To prevent unwanted purchases, users have the option to protect mobile transactions with a PIN.
Going beyond in-store retail features, Semble plans to enable contactless transportation payments capabilities in June, thanks to its partnership with Snapper, regional prepaid transit card provider.
“We have produced a mobile wallet that can cater for a wide range of services and what we are launching today with payments is just the beginning. We look forward to welcoming many more service providers to the Semble marketplace, including more banks as well as loyalty cards, public transport cards, ticketing, offers, vouchers and much more,” highlighted Ellis.
The company announced it is currently testing new features that would allow users to take part in special offers, loyalty points and POS redemption. So far, the only known establishment participating in the ongoing trials is BurgerFuel.