Software
What's new in ATM software?
ATM software is gaining traction with AI and cost-saving techniques for OS upgrades.
March 17, 2026 by Bradley Cooper — Editor, ATM Marketplace & Food Truck Operator
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ClaudeATM software is reaching a tipping point in many different areas. For one, the end of support for Windows 10 is putting banks in an awkward position as some have yet to even fully transition their ATM fleet to Windows 10 and now have to deal with a massive rollout or face possible security threats.
Security is another big issue at play, as criminals aren't slowing down with jackpotting attacks, man-in-the middle attacks and other techniques that target the ATM. AI of course is another big player in all of this, as ATM software providers have to navigate the hype and discover tools that actually benefit banks and independent ATM deployers.
However, ATM software providers are rising to the challenge by leaning into cloud-based tools and by offering cost effective techniques for banks to move their fleets over to Windows 11.
To learn more about what's new in ATM software, ATM Marketplace reached out to Steve Hensley, global EVP of sales at KAL, in an email interview.
Q. How are ATM operators handling OS upgrades in 2026, especially with the end of support for Windows 10?
Hensley:While most of the banks we spoke to last year had Windows 11 migrations planned or underway, some had yet to act. Most banks are using phase rollouts to manage the scale of upgrade projects. Alternative operating systems like Linux have not gained much traction in the ATM industry.
Not all ATM hardware supports Windows 11 — even many that were recently purchased. So, banks that are upgrading ATM software also face significant obstacles regarding the overall future-readiness of their machines. One resourceful way around this is Kalignite Hypervisor, which enables banks to run newer versions of Windows on their existing machines without having to upgrade the ATM hardware.
Q. We are seeing a massive increase in malware attacks in ATMs. How can operators protect their software?
Hensley: When it comes to modern ATM malware, a security model that protects every layer is one of the strongest defenses. Operators can protect their software by focusing on trusted boot and encryption, whitelisting, strict access control, real-time monitoring and end-to-end lockdown architectures (so only approved executables can run). The ATM software needs complementary hardware components to be completely secure. Hardware measures are very important — especially the use of TPM technology to protect the ATM hard disk. With a strong software and hardware security strategy, ATM networks are better positioned to withstand evolving security threads. It's a job that never ends.
Q. What do you see as the biggest ATM software trends currently?
Hensley:The ability to easily integrate ATM software with network API's is a defining requirement. Digital experiences continue to reshape self-service and customer expectations. Banks need the ability to deploy new services at scale and at pace. For many, this means modernizing from legacy technologies to advanced software that's specifically designed for the constantly evolving, digitally connected era. For some, rapid change can be streamlined through the adaptation of DevOps methodology. Czechia's leading bank increased its annual software releases from two to 12 by embracing DevOps.
Banks are also showing greater interest in cloud-hosted ATM software for unlocking new business efficiencies. A leading digital bank in Paraguay is leveraging Amazon Web Services for ATM software to streamline compliance and advanced functionality using cloud technology.
Q. What about ATM trends in general?
Hensley:As branches transform and cost strategies evolve, more banks are experiencing increased reliance on ATMs. In our most recent global survey, banks said ATM reliance jumped from 31% to 51% in just one year.
On the customer side, 58% of banks have observed rising demand for ATM usage — with cash deposit, contactless and mobile-integrated transactions surging. ATMs are increasingly becoming key physical touch points — combining irreplaceable cash services with digital convenience. The personalization that dominates digital channels continues to redefine the ATM user experience.
On the business strategy side, banks are rethinking ATM management to combat rising costs. You might be surprised to learn that nearly one in four banks plan to implement a fully outsourced ATM management model (ATM-as-a-Service) within the next two years. This approach can help banks reduce costs, enhance uptime, leverage emerging technologies and accelerate service rollouts.
Combined, all these shifts reveal how the industry is moving towards ATM ecosystems that are smarter, more integrated and more cost efficient.
Q. AI comes up a lot as a possibility for ATMs. Are we seeing any sort of rollout of AI features in ATMs?
Hensley: AI is generating a lot of excitement across many global industries, including the ATM industry. Card schemes have enhanced fraud detection using AI for many years. There is scope for AI to play a key role in fraud detection, network performance, security, advanced personalization, streamlined cash management and even fleet footprint optimization in future. The hype is ahead of the impact for now, but the possibilities are intriguing.
Q. Any upcoming feature or product you'd like to highlight?
Hensley: The future of the ATM industry rests on secure modernization. Here are three KAL solutions aligned with the trends and challenges we've explored in this interview.
- Kalignite Hypervisor: Smoothly transitioning ATM networks to newer versions of Windows, without requiring costly hardware upgrades.
- KTH (Kalignite Terminal Host): Keeping ATM networks resilient, secure and future-ready with advanced orchestration, streamlined integration and scalable modernization.
- Kalignite Security Lockdown: Securing ATMs and making modern malware attacks nearly impossible to execute.
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KAL ATM Software
KAL software delivers ATM efficiency and innovation you can bank on. It powers over 350,000 ATMs and dispenses more than $1 trillion per year.
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