Tencent and Visa have joined forces to launch palm recognition payments on the global stage, debuting the initiative at the Singapore Fintech Festival (SFF).
The pilot phase kicks off in Singapore, enabling Visa cardholders from banks like DBS, OCBC, and UOB to make payments by scanning their palms at select locations. The first implementation is at Alchemist café, where customers can enjoy a touch-free, card-free payment experience.
At SFF, attendees could try the new “Pay by Palm” technology firsthand at the booths of both Tencent and Visa.
Seamless Payment Enrollment and Security
To start using palm payments, users complete a quick one-time setup by tapping their Visa card, scanning their palm, and verifying their identity. After registering, customers can pay at any participating merchant with just a wave of their hand, eliminating the need for physical cards or mobile devices.
Tencent’s Singapore subsidiary, Tencent SenseTech, oversees data localisation, security, and compliance, ensuring privacy remains a top priority. The system uses dual-layer security, combining palm print and vein recognition, to maintain high accuracy—even in varied lighting. All data is encrypted, preventing unauthorised access or third-party misuse.
Tencent is actively seeking additional industry collaborations to explore further applications for its advanced palm recognition technology.
Adeline Kim, Visa’s Country Manager for Singapore and Brunei, reinforced the parnership vision by sharing that nearly 70% of Singapore consumer view biometric payments as secure, based on Visa's recent biometric study.
Kim underscored the convenience and security that palm recognition system would bring, reflecting Visa's ongoing commitment to improving consumer payment experiences.
The collaboration between Tencent and Visa is expected to provide Singapore's consumers with a seamless and secure payment method that leverages cutting-edge biometric technology.
Tencent is looking to broaden the applications of this technology by partnering with other industries and exploring new uses cases in various sectors. This strategic move aligns with Singapore's push towards innovative fintech solutions, positioning Tencent and Visa as pioneers in biometric payment technologies.
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