News

SunTrust 'innovation branch' a testing ground for new technologies

May 13, 2014

SunTrust Banks Inc. has unveiled a new “innovation branch” that will serve as a testing ground for new concepts that eventually might make their way into other locations of the Atlanta-based FI, according to a news release from the bank.

Among other new technologies, the new branch at the SunTrust Plaza Garden building in downtown Atlanta features a fully automated safety deposit box system that allows clients to access their valuables using their debit card, pin number and hand scan. The system, built by Montgomery, Ohio-based Hamilton Safe, is the first of its kind to be installed in the U.S.

Other features of the innovation branch include:

• Teller Connect machines developed by NCR Corp. that let clients initiate a video conference call to a remote teller in order to ask questions or complete a transaction;
• a Tablet Bar that offers clients a secure, convenient way to use SunTrust mobile, tablet and online banking via guest Wi-Fi; and
• an interactive 80-inch Microsoft Surface touchscreen that provides information about SunTrust accounts and services. SunTrust is the first super-regional bank to install this type of screen and educational tool in a branch.  

"Consumers want the option of self-service technology inside the branch,” said Brad Dinsmore, SunTrust corporate EVP of consumer banking and private wealth management. “This new technology allows more choices and greater convenience, while also ensuring access to experienced tellers who can offer the personal touch and human element that no technology can take away."

SunTrust plans to launch a similar innovation branch in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, D.C., this summer and will test more than 35 Teller Connect machines in various markets.