When Zong launched its one-click payment solution for Android back in June 2010, the company was just one of a number of independent outfits taking on larger players in the mobile payments field like Mastercard and PayPal.
Now, the company's technology is set to be incorporated into PayPal, thanks to a $240 million acquisition by its parent company eBay.
Payment power
That's exactly the angle eBay is highlighting, pointing to Zong's connections with more than 250 operators in 45 countries across the globe, and saying the technology will "help strengthen PayPals leadership position" in the mobile payments market.
"With mobile phones, we walk around with a mall in our pockets," added PayPal president Scott Thompson.
"PayPal helps to make money work better for customers in this new commerce reality no matter how they want to pay or what device theyre using.
"We believe that Zong will strengthen this value by helping us reach the more than 4 billion people who have mobile phones, giving them more choice and security when they pay."
Getting carried away
Zong's strength is that it allows consumers to pay for purchases from either their phone or PC through direct carrier billing. Whatever the product or service, users simply enter their phone number to add the cost to their bill.
It's not been made clear exactly how Zong's approach will fit in with PayPal's current model or even if the Zong name will survive the transition but eBay has stated the purchase will expand the payment options PayPal can offer consumers.
"Our customers love the convenience of paying with their mobile numbers a number they know by heart, and a device that they always have with them," said Zong CEO David Marcus.
"We look forward to extending our services to PayPal's more than 9 million merchants around the world. And were committed to working with carriers and merchants to help them drive more sales across devices."
[source: BusinessWire]
News
With a fine eye for detail, Keith Andrew is fuelled by strong coffee, Kylie Minogue and the shapely curve of a san serif font.
Top Stories
News
May 28th, 2024
PocketGamer.biz Podcast - ustwo games’ María Sayans on the sustainable strategy behind Monument Valley
Feature
1 hour, 5 minutes ago
Mobile Mavens: The industry wades in on Squad Busters from its “transformative impact” to being “corporate box ticking”
Feature
May 28th, 2024
Hot Five: Disney x Fortnite, Sega’s sonic speed, and a potential Keywords Studios buyout
Events
Unreal Fest Gold Coast 2024 | Australasia | May 29th |
For The Win 2024 | Europe | May 29th |
Indie Craft K-Game Festival 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Indie Game Fest & Indie Campus 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
Game Access Conference 2024 | Europe | May 31st |
GDCy Fest 2024 | May 31st | |
GameSummit Summer 2024 | Jun 1st | |
Gaymer Pride | North America | Jun 1st |