The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) has launched a number of new point-of-sale (POS) payment system technologies, designed to improve the POS experience for both consumers and merchants.
The new technologies include:
- CommBank Pi: A software platform that enables application developers and businesses to easily create applications for business use and distribute them through CommBank Pi’s AppBank to merchants.
- CommBank Albert: An omni-commerce device which combines a range of industry firsts into a multi-functional hardware platform. These include a touchscreen, Android based platform, secure EMV pin interface, printer, and merchant terminal functionality. Both CommBank Pi and Pi Appbank run on this device.
- CommBank Leo: Which attaches to the Apple iPod Touch, iPhone4 and iPhone4S devices to enable Pi to become a fully functioning merchant terminal, and move beyond unsecure card reader alternatives.
- A range of CommBank Pi Applications, which have been designed to improve businesses’ interactions with customers and improve operating effectiveness. For example, the Split the Bill application will make it simple for a bill to be divided between multiple people and payment methods.
The new technologies come as social, mobile and online technologies continue to shape customer interaction, according to Commonwealth Bank executive general manager of corporate banking solutions Kelly Bayer Rosmarin.
“Pi, together with Albert, will empower businesses to go beyond a simple transaction by using consumer-friendly applications and a human-centric interface to enrich the customer experience,” she said.
Based on feedback from consumers and businesses, Albert features a 7” screen and portable touch interface. This allows businesses to offer the customisation of Pi through the Android-based platform together with flexible payment options and enhanced mobility.
“From offering an easier way of splitting the bill, activating a loyalty program, using information on customer preferences, to offering a more personalised experience or checking stock – with Pi, the opportunities are limitless,” she added.
Albert will commence certification this year, and is expected to become available in Q2 2013. Leo is currently already in pilot and will be available to other businesses next month.
The Pi platform and AppBank will be available only through either the Albert or Leo devices, allowing businesses and developers to design and customise the apps that work best for their business. All apps will be subject to approval from Commonwealth Bank before they will be released for use.
Pi is available for developers to begin creating applications immediately.
