Retail payments and loyalty on mobile phones
A mobile phone-based loyalty and payments software platform has been unveiled for handsets using the Symbian operating system. The 'ViVoWallet' application allows consumers to make instant payments and receive loyalty points using their phone at any enabled point of sale.
The contactless payments software developer, ViVoTech, has joined the Symbian Platinum Partner programme, and is offering to other programme partners its suite of software, including ViVoWallet, ViVoPay Reader, and ViVoPlatform.
According to ViVoTech, the handset software also enables wireless service providers to generate additional revenue on a per-user basis by selling new services to merchants without requiring changes to the merchant's point of sale system, thereby reducing customer churn and differentiating their offering.
How it works Consumers simply point or wave their Symbian-based mobile telephone at the merchant's ViVoPay Reader-equipped cash register and the details of a pre-selected payment and/or loyalty card are instantly transferred to the cash register for payments and loyalty points.
The ViVoWallet service operates with any enabled cash register (even in locations without mobile phone coverage). However, when within a signal coverage area, ViVoWallet synchronises with ViVoPlatform's server side version of ViVoWallet.
Boost for loyalty ViVoWallet-enabled mobile devices can also provide an additional channel for retailers to promote and target customers. Typical applications include retailer loyalty programmes, gift and pre-paid cards, and SMS e-coupons. By carrying these digitally and using them for payments, or to redeem promotions at any enabled location, retailers can expand their loyalty programmes to enrich usage and increase participation.
"By collaborating with Symbian, we are changing the way the mobile world can make a payment, adding a high degree of convenience and safety to the experience," explained Jorge Fernandes, CEO and co-founder of ViVoTech.
For additional information: · Visit ViVoTech at http://www.vivotech.com · Visit Symbian at http://www.symbian.com