DeviceFidelity, which recently updated and re-released its moneto NFC mobile wallet app, announced that it has joined with Vincento Payment Solutions Ltd. and MasterCard to launch a European version of moneto. The U.K. will be the first European country where it will be made available.

"After the successful U.S. launch of the moneto mobile wallet earlier this year, DeviceFidelity has partnered with Vincento and MasterCard to bring this innovative popular payment solution to the U.K.," said Philippe Martineau, VP of business development for DeviceFidelity Europe. "The UK is one of the fastest growing prepaid and contactless payments markets, and ranks among the top markets for NFC and contactless POS enablement."

The moneto prepaid mobile wallet uses a combination of MasterCard's PayPass technology and DeviceFidelity's iCaisse4X protective case for the iPhones to enable tap-and-go payments using the device.

Unlike other mobile wallet services, DeviceFidelity said, moneto mobile wallet is available to most smartphone users irrespective of wireless carrier. It's also the first prepaid product to offer a mobile payment solution that includes an app for iPhones. Besides making payments, users can check balances, find local merchants that accept NFC payments, and review their account history. The account also comes with a companion EMV card for use at ATMs or to make online purchases.

DeviceFidelity said that iPhone users will be able to order the service directly from moneto's website and will be able to link their bank account or credit card to fund their moneto prepaid accounts. Android consumers in the U.K., followed by other European countries, will also be able to use the moneto mobile wallet on their devices.

"Momentum around NFC payments is gathering pace," said Kamran Hedjri, managing director at Vincento. "Following the enormous success of Kalixa, our prepaid MasterCard card, it was a natural to explore how we could develop an NFC offering."

Hedjri said the combination of DeviceFidelity and MasterCard means Vincento has partnered with truly innovative companies that share a common vision to make payments simple, secure and ubiquitous.

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