We’ve often heard about tap-and-pay smartphone solutions, but most of these haven’t made their way to SA yet. Samsung is set to change this with the introduction of Pay, a “safer, simpler payment method that works anywhere.”

Talking of which, so how does it work? Samsung Pay on the device is linked to a bank account, and when prompted to pay at a shop, users can simply tap their compatible Samsung Galaxy phone on a payment terminal to complete the transaction. Users must authenticate the transaction by scanning their fingerprint, use their PIN or scan their iris (on certain Galaxy smartphones). Currently Pay is compatible with the Galaxy Note 8, S9, S8, S7 and A8 devices, and will be supported on the Galaxy A5 | A7 (2017 Edition) before the end of August.

While the ‘tap and pay’ method is not new in South Africa, Samsung Pay uses a proprietary technology called MST (Magnetic Secure Transmission), which enables  users to make contactless payments virtually anywhere and on practically any payment terminal. Most merchants do not need to upgrade their current payment terminals for Samsung Pay, thus allowing for a smooth and fast purchase process, according to the Korean handset manufacturer.

A limited number of Absa customers will be among the first to enjoy Samsung Pay through the Early Access Program for a limited period before the service commercially launches. Standard Bank will join the Early Access Program in due course.

To get the service off the ground, Samsung has a competition running where those who use Pay ten times during the Early Access period stand a chance of winning one of five Galaxy S9 phones. For a limited time only, users also receive a R30 voucher from Mugg & Bean, after the first Samsung Pay transaction.