UK-based card payment company CreditCall is to launch a Chip & PIN payment app that turns smartphones into eftpos terminals for on-the-go debit and credit card transactions.
Available for BlackBerry devices from the autumn, the CardEase Mobile app requires the use of a separate Bluetooth-linked PIN Pad that can be paired to the smartphone. Transaction data is encrypted and sent over the wireless network for authorisation.
A transaction receipt can then be sent to the customer by email, SMS or in paper format from an optional printer.
CreditCall says that although the EMV-accredited app can be used as a standalone application, by small businesses or as a queue-busting device at larger retailers, it is principally aimed at third-party developers who can integrate with other smartphone apps such as retail order-taking or field service.
An easy-to-use API will be available as well says the vendor.