Elan, Sapphire partner for mobile banking, payments
February 28, 2007
LAS VEGAS - Elan Financial Services and Sapphire Mobile Systems have partnered on a mobile-banking and payments pilot, the two announced Feb. 27-28 during the Prepaid Card Forum and Expo.
According to a news release, Elan has integrated with the Phire Mobile Debit Network to provide customers with access to PayCard accounts via any mobile handset. The Phire network utilizes simple text messaging or short message service; it does not require new hardware or software upgrades.
This initial pilot allows Elan PayCard customers to conduct balance inquiries, make person-to-person payments and card transfers. These transactions are referred to as Phire transactions and act together as a mobile debit network.
The pilot is expected to launch this month.
"We have worked closely with the Sapphire team for more than six months to assist them in bringing their new service to market and to enable the Phire transactions for an Elan pilot," said Dominic Venturo, senior vice president of Elan.