Gemalto UpTeq Multi-tenant SIM powers first NFC payment in Ukraine

Gemalto (Euronext NL0000400653 GTO), the world leader in digital security, has supplied its UpTeq Multi-tenant SIM-embedded software and product to Kyivstar, the leading Ukranian mobile operator, supporting the country's first ever contactless payment via a mobile phone. Working in conjunction with Kyivstar, Alfa-Bank's pilot paves the way for a full commercial launch of NFC mobile payments across Ukraine. Kyivstar is the Ukrainian business unit of VimpelCom, with a total customer base of more than 25 million subscribers.

This first introduction of mobile payments in the country will put new standards of convenience within reach of millions of Kyivstar subscribers. Gemalto's proven UpTeq Multi-tenant SIM will enable payment for a host of goods and services with nothing more than the tap of a smartphone. The UpTeq SIM design incorporates a unique multi-tenant architecture that facilitates simple and fast on-boarding of new service providers to create a compelling value proposition for mobile operators, banks, transit and loyalty schemes. At present, there are an estimated 22 000 contactless payment terminals in Ukraine. Eliminating the need to fumble for the right cash or card, the ground-breaking service from Kyivstar and Alfa-Bank will mean Ukrainians can look forward to less stress and shorter queues when paying at shops throughout the country.

"Kyivstar is committed to delivering an outstanding mobile payment experience," said Alexey Kireev, Head of New Business Department at Kyivstar. "Our goal is to continue developing mobile finance products at Kyivstar extensively in 2014. We are glad to be working with one of the world's most trusted partners for NFC."

"NFC technology virtually transforms a smartphone into a fully functional mobile purse, which offers Alfa-Bank customers a trendy, ubiquitous payment method," noted Piotr Kaczmarek, Director of Retail Business, Alfa-Bank (Ukraine). "And you may use it anywhere you come across a contactless payment terminal."

"By leveraging Gemalto's NFC technology, Kyivstar and Alfa-Bank are pioneering a revolution in the way Ukrainians will pay for goods and services in the years ahead," added Philippe Cambriel, Gemalto President for Europe, Mediterranean and CIS. "With the boom in contactless equipment at the point of sale in the country, this is the perfect timing for mobile payment introduction."