With the tap of a finger, Viber users of participating banks will now be able to instantly send and transfer money. Image: Hamik/Shutterstock
Viber’s velocity towards a richer apps future has been given added impetus, through the creation of an automated banking app for the popular messaging platform by Comtrade.
Comtrade is leading the charge in digital transformation for players like Ryanair, and is now working with Viber to bring automated banking to smartphones through a chatbot.
In recent weeks, Viber COO Michael Shmilov told Siliconrepublic.com that the company, which is owned by Japanese e-commerce giant Rakuten, sees its future in providing richer services within its platform.
‘It is time for the world’s banks to welcome this new era and seek innovative solutions that will help them retain and attract customers – or be left behind’
– OLIVER LYNCH
“Viber started out as an app that connects people,” explained Elad Kojocaru, VP of marketing at Viber.
“Now, we are introducing a way for people to start connecting with businesses and brands through the launch of our Public Accounts service.”
Digital transformation and agile methodologies
Oliver Lynch, business development director, Comtrade. Image: Comtrade
With the tap of a finger, Viber users of participating banks will now be able to instantly send and transfer money. They will also be able to check their bank balance and access other banking services directly through the app. Recipients of Viber payments will be able to instantly retrieve the money sent to them by using a QR code at an ATM or going to their local branch.
Using agile methodologies, Comtrade Digital Services developed a banking solution with a chatbot that can understand and process user requests instantly and securely.
The product can be integrated directly with banks’ own digital platforms and will help them to compete with emerging fintech companies.
The solution also includes a client acquisition tool that will help banks attract younger customers, who will soon dominate the payments world. The project was completed in just three months.
“At Comtrade Digital Services, we are constantly telling businesses that they must be willing to embrace and drive digital transformation in order to stay ahead,” explained Oliver Lynch, business development director.
“That is exactly what Viber has done and I expect many will follow. This marks a whole new era of banking, and we can expect a significant proportion of the world’s micro transactions to be carried out over messaging apps and social media platforms in the future.
“Now, it is time for the world’s banks to welcome this new era and seek innovative solutions that will help them retain and attract customers – or be left behind.”
