Mastercard has expanded its global Biometric Checkout Program. The program now includes a new pilot at Tienda Inglesa's Red Expres in Uruguay. This project is in partnership with Ingenico, Fulcrum Biometrics, Fujitsu Frontech, and Scanntech.

Red Expres Adopts Biometric Checkout

This pilot allows shoppers at Red Expres to pay using their palm. Shoppers can register their payment information and biometrics on-site. To pay, they simply place their hand over a sensor at the payment terminal. This system aims to make payments faster and reduce waiting times at checkout. It also integrates with loyalty programs.

The Biometric Checkout Program is a new technology framework by Mastercard. It sets standards for in-store payments using biometrics. Ingenico and Fulcrum Biometrics, a Fujitsu company, developed the payment system. The system lets users link their palm biometrics to any debit, prepaid, or credit card. This means they can pay without needing a wallet or device.

“We believe that biometrics will create an easier and more secure environment for everyone around the world, in our ever-expanding digital society. I'm very happy to see our PalmSecure and Fulcrum Biometrics technology shaping Ingenico’s next generation of payment solutions through the Mastercard BCO program,” stated Takahiro Matsumura, Corporate Vice President of Fujitsu Frontech Limited and Global Head of PalmSecure Business.

In a separate development, Mastercard has introduced a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency credentials pilot program across Europe and Latin America to streamline digital currency transactions, as reported by Finance Magnates.

The initiative, known as the Mastercard Crypto Credential, aims to simplify and secure crypto transfers by eliminating the necessity for intricate blockchain addresses. Available in over ten countries, including Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay, the service facilitates cross-border and domestic transfers across various currencies and blockchains through exchanges like Bit2Me, Lirium, and Mercado Bitcoin.

Expansion of Biometric Payment Systems

Mastercard first launched Biometric Checkout program in Brazil in Spring 2022. Last year, Mastercard expanded the program to the Asia Pacific region. Mastercard plans to launch more biometric pilots in several countries later this year.

“We are excited to expand our Biometric Checkout Program further into Latin America with the launch of our pilot program at Red Expres,” said Federico Cofman, Cluster Lead for Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, Mastercard. “Consumers are looking for more choice in how they pay, and thanks to our collaborative innovation, we can deliver more seamless, secure payment experiences.”