Pingit Launches Wearable Devices

Pingit, the Barclays-owned mobile payment platform, recently upgraded their service. Since 2012, customers have been using Pingit to transfer money to friends and family using only their mobile phone. Although initially launched only to Barclays current account holders, the firm has expanded its reach in recent years. Now, they’re offering even more convenience. 

What is Pingit?

For those who are unfamiliar with the service, Pingit is a mobile app that lets you send and receive money. All you need is a UK phone number and a bank account (it doesn’t even have to be a Barclays account). Once you've set up your account, you can make a payment with just a few taps of your phone. 

Pingit is a mobile app that lets you send and receive money

It’s not just a transfer system either, you can make purchases, get paid, fundraise and more. Even if you’re making payments to people who don’t have Pingit, the process is simple and straightforward. What’s more, Barclays have backed the app with their own security, giving you peace of mind when you’re paying.

New ways to pay

Barclays recently announced that they’ve launched their own dedicated e-store. Here, customers can purchase a range of devices that make making payments even easier. These newly-released lifestyle and fashion accessories are all embedded with payment capabilities. 

So far, customers can choose from wristbands, key fobs, and the Pingit loop. This last accessory slides onto your existing watch or fitness band. You can use all of these devices to make contactless payments. 

How do Pingit devices work?

It’s actually incredibly easy to get started with whichever Pingit device you choose. The accessory is connected to your mobile, which is already connected to your Pingit account. This makes keeping track of your money a breeze. You can also control which ‘jar’ (subaccount) your money comes out of. 

There are a few other neat features too. You can top up your Pingit account on the go, or set up an automatic payment. You can also buy a National Lottery Lucky Dip ticket with your Pingit account. Any prizes you win, up to a value of £50,000 will go straight into your account. 

Collaborations

Along with Pingit’s own range of devices, the company will also provide a range of partner products. With brands such as Timex, Guess and Hugo Boss planned in, you can expect watches, key fobs, and leather bracelets on the horizon. There are already bracelets and key rings on offer from Tovi Sorga. 

In this age of convenience, it’s not surprising to see big brands embrace new technologies. With the Pingit wearables, we can see how it’s useful for nights out, festivals, and other special occasions. Whether or not it replaces cards or phone apps remains to be seen.