News

Axalto expects to issue 5 million contactless cards in U.S. in '06

November 6, 2005

AUSTIN, Texas - Axalto, a provider of microprocessor cards, "will provide approximately 5 million of its contactless smart payment cards to top banks in the United States by the end of this year," said Paul Beverly, Americas president for Axalto.

The MasterCard PayPass cards will include both credit and debit cards to enable "wave and go" payments.

According to market estimates by Frost & Sullivan, Axalto holds a leading position in banking smart cards in the world, with total shipments exceeding 70 million smart banking cards in 2004.

"U.S. financial institutions are leading the move to contactless payment cards," Beverly added. "Axalto is committed to helping these institutions put a contactless card in the hand of each consumer to bring payments into a future that is faster and more convenient."

Axalto's smart payment cards, manufactured in Maryland and in Orleans, France, contain best-in-class contactless technology to ensure privacy and security for cardholders.

Axalto's product also has an optional embossing capability that allows issuers to use all four available lines for embossing on the front of the card. Issuers use this fourth line to add a company name and for other marketing purposes.