Federal Bank Leads the Way: Unveiling India’s Groundbreaking Facial Payment System, SmilePay

Innovative facial authentication technology enables quick and seamless transactions and brings users to smile on camera as they complete their purchases. Technology is based on Bhim Aadhaar Pay.

Initial pilots rolled out in partnership with Reliance Retail and Svatantra Micro Finance for their customers at select branches/outlets

CHENNAI: Federal Bank, India’s leading private sector Bank, is proud to announce the launch of SmilePayTM, this groundbreaking technology will allow customers to complete transactions using only their face. This revolutionary product, unveiled as we enter India’s 78th year of Independence, marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards financial freedom and convenience. The launch of SmilePayTM happened at the Global Fintech Fest by Ms Shalini Warrier, Executive Director, Federal Bank.

Introducing SmilePay™: Pioneering a New Era of Facial Authentication Payments

Two of India’s largest corporate houses, Reliance Retail and Ananya Birla helmed Svatantra Micro Housing (SMHFC), are among the first to pilot this innovative technology with their customers at select outlets/branches.

SmilePay™ is the first-of-its-kind payment solution in India, utilizing advanced facial authentication technology built on the UIDAI’s Bhim Aadhaar Pay. This revolutionary product eliminates the need for traditional payment methods, offering unmatched convenience for customers and enhanced efficiency for merchants.

“SmilePayTM is not just a product; it’s a step towards a more connected and efficient financial ecosystem,” said Shalini Warrier, Executive Director at Federal Bank. “We’re excited to see how this technology will transform the banking experience for our customers.”

“The concept of moving from cash to cards to QR codes to wearables, and now just a smile to pay, is an exciting Customer Experience in the making,” added Indraneel Pandit, CDO, Federal Bank.

Speaking on the introduction of the payment system at select Reliance Retail outlets, V Subramaniam, Director, Reliance Retail said, “At Reliance Retail, we are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology that enhances the customer experience. SmilePay™ aligns perfectly with our vision of offering seamless, secure, and innovative solutions to our customers by making the customer journey more intuitive and convenient.”

“Aligned with Ms. Ananya Birla’s vision, Svatantra Micro Housing (SMHFC) helps create intergenerational equity, by facilitating home-asset acquisition. With a focus on customer-centricity, SMHFC is devoted to providing affordable, convenient, secure, and seamless solutions for our customers. We are happy to partner with Federal Bank and confident that the solutions provided by SmilePayTM represent a truly innovative step in this direction.” Said Vineet Chattree, Director, SMHFC

Key Features and Benefits of SmilePay™:

Unmatched Convenience: Customers can complete transactions without the need to carry cash, cards, or mobile devices.

Enhanced Merchant Efficiency: Facilitates effective crowd management and seamless transaction processing at counters.

Robust Security: Powered by the secure UIDAI face authentication service, ensuring safe and reliable transactions.

User-Friendly: A simple, intuitive interface requiring only a facial scan to complete a purchase.

Availability and Future Expansion

SmilePay™ will initially be available exclusively to Federal Bank customers, requiring both merchants and customers to have accounts with the Bank. Federal Bank plans to extend the service and explore strategic partnerships to broaden its reach shortly.

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