U.S. Bank today announce the the U.S. Bank MasterCard PayPass VITAband, a light-weight and durable wristband that combines contactless payment technology with emergency contact and medical information.
The VITAband allows customers to simply “Tap & Go” when making purchases at merchant locations that accept contactless payments. It also links to a customizable Emergency Response Profile (ERP) that provides medical professionals with fast access to critical medical information in the event of an emergency. U.S. Bank employees began testing the VITAband in multiple states in the second quarter of 2011, making U.S. Bank one of the first major card issuers in the United States to pilot this new technology.
“U.S. Bank MasterCard PayPass VITAband is great for sports enthusiasts or people who are on-the-go and don’t want the hassle of carrying cash and identification. It provides contactless payment functionality, along with access to emergency contact and medical information, all in one convenient wristband,” said Beth Blaisdell, senior vice president for U.S. Bank Payment Services. “Listening to and understanding the financial and personal needs of our customers inspire us to offer unique and powerful new products like the VITAband.”
The VITAband contains a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) payment chip, which enables contactless purchases. Customers can load and reload funds onto the chip as needed via an online user account. Each band also carries a VITAnumber, a unique, eight digit numeric identifier that links the wearer to a customizable Emergency Response Profile, which houses the individual’s identity and critical medical information. First responders can access the profile in the event of an emergency. With a VITAband, customers benefit from both convenience and peace of mind.
With the VITAband, customers can their account balances, reload associated prepaid accounts and customize their Emergency Response Profiles. Signatures are also not required for purchases under $50 that are made with the PayPass-enabled wristband.
