Portugal Telecom launches internal mobile wallet pilot
26 March, 2012
category: NFC
Portugal Telecom has launched an internal pilot of “tmn wallet,” a new mobile payments service that combines NFC technology, QR codes and text messages into one single platform.
Some 11,000 Portugal Telecom employees can now use tmn wallet service to purchase products in vending machines, catering spaces and custom food delivery services using just their mobile phones. Purchases can be made in PT buildings in Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo and Avenida Álvaro Pais in Lisbon, and at PT Inovação in Aveiro.
Developed by SAPO and PT Inovação, the service aggregates NFC, QR Codes, SMS and USSD technologies into a single solution that enables consumers to choose how they want to pay. For example, if the customer wants to use NFC, he or she simply opens the tmn wallet application and taps the phone against the payment terminal. To make payments via SMS, the customer sends a free text to 5665 with the word “pagar” in order to receive a code to enter into the payment terminal.
“This pilot was developed to operate basically on all mobile phones. Why? Because it is not based only on NFC technology, which is present in this moment only on some phones, but can also be used via SMS texts and USSD, which are common features in all devices,” added PT’s Miguel Spínola, Mobile Terminal Equipment Department.
Customers can register at the tmn Web site to create a virtual wallet that can be funded through Paypal or a credit, ATM or MB Phone card. The credit will be immediately available for payment of products via mobile at participating stores.
According to Tiago Silva Lopes, Portugal Telecom will aim for a commercial launch of tmn wallet in 2012.